Issue No. 21 | March 23, 2026

Weekly Edition Sponsor

PUBLISHER'S NOTE | Denise Leslie | There’s something about this season that draws us back outside—and into the rhythms that shape our communities in meaningful ways.

Across Southwest Colorado, our Creative Districts—Durango, Mancos, Ignacio, and Silverton—embody the unique spirit of each place, shaped by the artists, makers, and storytellers who call them home. Creativity here isn’t separate; it’s woven into everyday life.

You’ll experience that same energy at our local farmers' markets, where the season appears in color, flavor, and connection. From fresh produce to handmade goods, these gatherings are as much about community as they are about what we carry home.

Inside this issue, you’ll also find a short story, "Color Therapy," brought to life with illustrations by local artist Miki Harder—a creative pairing that invites us to experience the story not just through words, but through color and emotion.

This summer, we’re packing up the camper and heading to Creede for a mountain getaway. Along the way, we’re carving out an evening at the Creede Repertory Theatre to see Working: A Musical—a perfect blend of time outdoors and time spent in story. Be sure to check out the Event Spotlight for more details.

Wherever the season takes you, I hope you find something that inspires you along the way and click through to read more at artsperspectivemag.com.

With gratitude,

Denise

CULINARY ARTS| FOOD EVENTS
sponsored by Durango Farmers Market

Fresh Finds & Community Vibes

On summer mornings across Southwest Colorado, farmers’ markets transform ordinary spaces into vibrant gatherings of food, art, and community. What begins with fresh-picked produce quickly unfolds into something richer—live music drifting through the air, artisans sharing their craft, and neighbors lingering over coffee and conversation. From the bustling energy of Durango to the easy rhythm of Bayfield, Cortez, and Pagosa Springs, each market offers its own flavor of the season. Step into these open-air celebrations and discover why they’ve become one of the region’s most beloved traditions.

PUBLISHER'S FEATURE| sponsored by Arts Perspective Magazine

Creative Threads Across the Mountains

Creativity is doing more than filling galleries—it’s shaping the very identity of communities. From the artist-rooted charm of Mancos to the collaborative energy of Durango, the cultural partnerships of Ignacio, and the high-altitude inspiration of Silverton, the region’s Colorado Creative Districts form a vibrant corridor where art, heritage, and community intersect. Discover how these towns are using creativity not just to express who they are, but to build connection, strengthen local economies, and imagine what comes next.

LITERARY ARTS | SHORT STORY

Color Therapy by Rebecca Bailey

Of course, the moon was full; could it possibly have happened any other way? Even inland, the tides pulled differently, and something in the body awoke.

I had recognized the house as soon as I saw it, though I’d never been there. I pushed down the part of me, realizing I had dreamed this, telling myself I had to have seen it in a magazine.

I walked up the eight red steps, then unlatched the delicate gate and stepped onto the porch. I fastened the latch, then turned to face a small, round table draped with dark purple lace. I sat down in one of the two chairs, aware of the drone of cicadas somewhere in the distance, and of this not being the season for them. The fragile seat, white and gold like an elegant woman’s dressing table, was comfortable, and I relaxed.

VISUAL ARTS | JEWELRY

A Quiet Way of Seeing: The Work of Milt Beens

Milt Beens’ work offers a quiet invitation to slow down and see the landscape a little differently. Rooted in decades of making and teaching, his paintings reflect a deep connection to place and a steady, thoughtful approach to light and color. It’s always a treat to see his newest pieces appear—be sure to follow along and watch his work unfold.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT | sponsored by Creede Repertory Theatre

“Working: A Musical” This Summer in Creede

Working: A Musical arrives at Creede Repertory Theatre this summer, offering a heartfelt look at the stories behind everyday work. Built from real-life experiences and shaped through music, the production reflects the pride, complexity, and humanity found in what we do. Set against the backdrop of Creede’s mountain community, it’s a fitting reminder to pause and notice the lives unfolding all around us, running June 20 through September 5 at the Ruth Humphreys Brown Theatre.

Quote for the Week: "Life is what happens while you are busy making other plans." ~ John Lennon

Love staying in the know? Keep the arts flowing.

If Eye on the Arts has ever introduced you to a new artist, inspired you to attend a performance, or helped you feel more connected to our creative corner of Southwest Colorado… consider buying us a coffee.

When you become a monthly supporter, you’re not just funding a publication — you’re fueling a gathering space.

Join us at any level:

✨ Creative Alley – grassroots arts supporter

✨ Studio Circle – sustaining storyteller

✨ Spotlight Sponsor – champion of creative voices

For less than the price of one latte a month, you help amplify local artists, reduce their visibility burden, and keep arts news free and flowing across the Four Corners.

If this feels like your creative home, we’d love your support.

☕ Become a monthly supporter today — and keep the stories flowing.

Thank you all, Barbara Grist, Shell Simonson, Heather Freeman, Tad Smith, Moni & Jonas Grushkin, Milt Beens, Aunt Victoria & Jim, Cinda Wassmer, Randy Hays, Patricia Burk, Sharon Abshagen, Mary Zaleski, Jan Wright, Charles Shaw, Linda Barnes, Julie Cooley, Beth Drum, Hilarie Strong, Charles Leslie, Cary Lindley & Ilze Aviks!