Issue No. 5 | December 1, 2025

Weekly Edition Sponsor

A Note from Publisher, Denise Leslie | This week in Eye on the Arts!

As winter begins to settle around us, I’ve been thinking about the many ways our community gathers—sometimes in big, joyful ways, and sometimes in the quiet spaces where creativity finds room to breathe. This issue of Arts Perspective brings together stories that reflect both sides of that spectrum.

We begin with a look at Stillwater Music’s partnerships with local schools, including its long-standing relationship with Durango Montessori. You’ll also find a personal piece about one of Durango’s most cherished holiday traditions—the Polar Express.

Our regional libraries are highlighted as well, as they’ve grown into dynamic community spaces. From Mancos to Pine River to Ignacio, libraries are offering programs, events, and gatherings that bring people together in ways that feel welcoming and grounded.

Finally, this issue includes a feature for anyone who approaches the holidays with mixed feelings. Sometimes the strongest creative sparks come in the stillness—when life slows down enough for reflection, rest, or a simple breath.

Thank you for reading and for being part of this creative community. However you engage—with a paintbrush, a notebook, an instrument, or simply by showing up—you help shape the artistic heartbeat of the Four Corners.

Call for Creators

Are you an artist, writer, musician, or storyteller with something to share?

Send your news, work, or ideas to dleslie@artsperspectivemag.com.

I want to hear your story.

— Denise Leslie

With appreciation and joy,

Denise Leslie

Publisher & Editor, Arts Perspective

Tad Smith | Fine Artist

Since the first crayon I ate, I’ve been passionate about fine arts. That early curiosity grew into a lifelong calling — one that led me to found a gallery, curate exhibitions, work as a graphic designer, and create fine art that weaves together creativity, community, and philanthropy. Today, my work continues to evolve within Durango’s vibrant art scene.

LITERARY ARTS | ARTS HUBS | sponsored by Arts Perspective magazine
When Rural Libraries Evolve: How Southwest Colorado’s Libraries Are Becoming Community Anchors

This week’s Event Spotlight explores a quieter but significant part of our creative landscape: our rural libraries. Across Durango, Bayfield, Ignacio, and Mancos, these libraries have grown into true community hubs—places where families gather, creativity flourishes, and the holiday season comes alive through hands-on workshops, storytimes, cultural programs, and festive celebrations.

We take a closer look at how each library is embracing this expanded role, and we highlight one of the season’s most joyful events: the Mancos Public Library’s Holiday Craft Shop on December 20, where neighbors of all ages come together to create handmade gifts and share in the spirit of the season.

Read the entire story here...

CREATIVE VOICES | sponsored by Jimmy's Music & Supply
In the Quiet Moments: How Art Holds Us When Life Feels Heavy

Sometimes the season feels a little louder than our hearts do—and that’s okay. This week’s feature explores how the arts offer a gentle place to land when life feels heavy. From quiet galleries to creative moments that restore our spirits, it’s a reminder that you don’t have to be festive to belong.

PERFORMING ARTS | MUSIC | sponsored by Stillwater Music

A Musical Pathway: How Stillwater Music and Durango Montessori Are Growing Young Creatives

This week’s Creative Voices highlights the meaningful and long-standing partnership between Durango Montessori School and Stillwater Music—an inspiring example of how intentional arts education can shape confident, curious young learners. From hands-on classroom experiences to the diverse ensemble opportunities at Stillwater, students are discovering how music builds community, nurtures creativity, and expands their sense of possibility. With Stillwater’s exciting merger with the Be Frank Foundation, this impact is poised to grow even deeper.

READ THE STORY AND WATCH THE VIDEO...

EVENT SPOTLIGHT | sponsored by Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Jammies, Cocoa, and the Journey to the Polar Express

What happens when you watch The Polar Express in your pajamas one night and ride the real train the next? A little magic, a little nostalgia, and a memorable Durango holiday tradition you’ll want to repeat every year.

The Art of Giving Back: A Thanksgiving Reflection on Creative Generosity Across Southwest Colorado

What strikes me most is how naturally artists in our region turn their creativity into care. As the days grow shorter and the cool weather settles in, it feels natural to look around and notice the many ways people in our creative community support each other. From small-town galleries to mountain-side studios, from brewery stages to weaving circles, generosity is woven throughout our arts scene in a way that feels steady, genuine, and deeply rooted in Southwest Colorado.

Thank you to our Weekly Edition Sponsor | "It could be YOU!"

Each week, Arts Perspective keeps an eye on the arts with curiosity, joy, and heart—spotlighting the people, performances, and places that make our region shine. As a Weekly Edition Sponsor, your name appears right here, alongside the stories that celebrate creativity across the Four Corners.

Want to learn more? Visit Denise at 1309 E. 3rd Ave., Suite 110, in Durango, and feel the hum of our creative community in action.

Quote for the Week "Music can change the world because it can change people." - BONO

Your Eye on the Arts is free to read and share. We believe stories about creativity should be accessible to everyone, which is why there’s no paywall. If you find value in our work, we welcome donations or ongoing support through our Buy Me a Coffee platform — every contribution helps bring more stories to life.

Thank you to all who supported Arts Perspective magazine this month on "Buy Me a Coffee" - YOU ALL ROCK!! Thank you, Cinda Wassmer!