Each year, Mesa County Libraries hosts Culture Fest, a celebration of the diverse cultures represented in Mesa County through performances, country tables, and a juried art show.
The open-themed exhibit provides an opportunity for local artists to showcase their skills and celebrate the rich artistic culture of our community.
This year’s Culture Fest Juried Art Show reception took place on Friday, November 1, at the Central Library. Talented local musician Kelan David entertained guests with familiar songs leading up to the announcement of the award-winning artists.
This year’s juror, paleo artist and comic creator, M. Brooke Safken, thoughtfully selected 58 pieces of art from 44 artists to be displayed at the Central, Clifton, and Fruita libraries.
Safken is an award-winning illustrator specializing in paleontological art and creature design. Her work can be found internationally, including promotional art for the film Jurassic World and museum reconstructions.
Congratulations to the artists selected by M. Brooke Safken to receive the following awards:
1st place – L.E. Williams for Searching for A Heart of Marigold
2nd place – John Anglim for A Conversation with Found Objects
3rd place – Julie Hickman for Pop Bestiary
Honorable Mention- Ronald Glover for Tying Flies
Honorable Mention- Katie Sheader for Tiger with Orchids
Honorable Mention- Charles Morris for Grand View
Funding for Mesa County Libraries art show prizes has been provided by the Friends of the Mesa County Libraries, part of the Mesa County Libraries Foundation. Thanks to the Friends and Foundation for their support of art in the library!
View winning art and all accepted entries in slideshow below: