A Shared Joy

Some of my best experiences are those that are shared. I bicycled along the Animas River Trail one August evening, heading home from my art studio. I followed the colorful progression of a cloud to the north, changing into the most breathtaking hues of oranges and golds. As I crossed the pedestrian bridge near my home, there was an explosion of color in its Animas River reflection. I stopped to join four others who were breathing in the same scene. This shared, joyful moment was impactful, with us all silently in awe of the splendor, wearing the same silly grin on our faces. I captured the memory of this moment on canvas -- I hope you enjoy it, too.

"A Shared Joy"

40" x 30" | acrylic on canvas

available

Durango Animal Connection

Oh the joy of puppy (or kitten) love!  

Have you ever driven across the Navajo Nation and considered taking home one of the dogs roaming along the desert highway? Do you have a heart for rescue animals and a desire to make a difference in the Four Corners?

Erin Nissen of Durango Animal Connection has a heart of gold. She is proud to serve as your personal concierge in your animal adoption journey. She desired a colorful, soulful website to highlight the beautiful animals she has lovingly supported through adopted families. Her logo and colors were established, so it was a joy to highlight her beautiful animals within a well-designed website.

Whether you’re looking to adopt a rescue puppy or kitten or want to support First Nation animal rescue, Durango Animal Connection can’t wait to connect you with the newest member of your family!

Durango Animal Connection, serving the animals of the Four Corners Region through rescue, foster and adoption

Gluten-Free Dutch Babies

This is a genuinely joyful meal! My kids used to love to watch through the oven window in amazement as the Dutch Baby rose right out of its pan as it's baking. (Don't open your oven door to peek as it bakes, or it may fall dramatically!)

This recipe is easier to make than a batch of pancakes, and it's loaded with protein from its 4 eggs, so a topping of cut fruit or stewed apples will make a complete meal. Its rich, custardy flavor will taste like a treat, and a quick cleanup of only two dishes will also leave you pampered!

Enjoy -- this is a fun one!

Durango First Friday

The ArtRoom Collective First Friday January Art Crawl

The next Durango First Friday Art Crawl is January 5, the monthly celebration of all things local in our amazing community—art and music, culture, unique goods, real food, and movement makers! This is a super-FUN monthly event!

Are you interested in being a participating Durango business? Check out the Local First - First Friday site here. It's free to participate! See you out on the town on First Friday.

Are you a local artist, musician, performer, or creative spirit interested in showcasing your work at a local business during a Durango First Friday? Fill out the artist form here. Responses from this form will be made available to local businesses searching for creatives to host during Durango First Fridays. 

The ArtRoom Collective at The Smiley is a diverse, working studio gallery where 22 artists create, collaborate, and share their passion with the community.