The Southwest Artists League is inviting community members, especially seniors, to explore their creative interests at a free public program “Get Creative!”
The one‑hour event is scheduled for Tuesday, March 24 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Cortez Library, 202 N. Park St. It will feature a PowerPoint presentation, personal stories from four SWAL members and printed handouts. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.
Local artists Lucky Mercy Star Bast, Susie Gallagher, Theresa Goldstrand and Frances Wisner will share how they found their way into art and how those experiences continue to shape their work.
Goldstrand, SWAL president, said members’ paths to art vary widely. She said some have made art all their lives, while others started recently or returned after setting creativity aside for family or work obligations.
“No one has the same story,” she said. Her hope, she added, is to encourage “all of those ‘closet artists’ to come out and join a friendly, diverse, dynamic group of artists – no matter what your current skill level is – make friends and enjoy the company of other artistic types.”
Founded in Cortez, the Southwest Artists League brings together people who want to pursue individual creative projects. The group encourages skill development, fosters appreciation for all art forms and helps members find opportunities for exhibitions and events.
Goldstrand said the league wants potential artists to know they are welcome, whether they want to experiment or advance their abilities. “There’s no better time than now to start,” she said.
The league became more formally structured in 1979 after several years of meetups. Members gather every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the activity space at the Montezuma County Senior Center, 117 N. Chestnut St. The second Tuesday of each month is reserved for a business meeting, while the others focus on hands‑on creative work.
The Cortez Library displayed SWAL artwork in January and February and plans another exhibit of members’ work in April.
For more information, contact the Southwest Artists League at (970) 529-0206.
