LOCAL NEWS
Five Questions: Alyson Kinkade, a lifetime in the arts


Columbine Gallery closing June 1

By PAMELA JOHNSON 
Loveland Reporter-Herald
May 7, 2023 at 8:00 p.m.




Alyson Kinkade has been creating art for, as she said, “as long as I can remember.”
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The painter, who runs Columbine Gallery in Loveland with her dad, John Kinkade, is one of 62 artists with pieces in the Governor’s Art Show underway at the Loveland Museum, and dips her paintbrush into many different colors of the art world.

With the National Sculptor’s Guild, she helps place large sculptures in public art collections.

With the gallery, which is closing in June and transitioning to online only, she has provided a place for artists to display and sell their work, and for people to view a variety of different types of art.
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With her paints, she creates a unique world for people to enjoy.

1. How did you first start as an artist? What is your specialty?
I have enjoyed creating art for as long as I can remember, with great art teachers throughout my primary schools in Greeley and Loveland, and a supportive family with creative friends even before my family started the art gallery. I grew up with encouragement to try all methods and materials that art can take form in, going to the Creative Arts Center all through elementary school.  …  My (junior high) art teacher was Dan Augenstein — we called him Auggie — who I later got to represent as an artist in our gallery. He’s also in the Governor’s Art Show. He specialized in ceramics at the time, so I created a series of ceramic animals that I then sold at Arts Picnic. Connie Einfalt and Laurie White were my art teachers at Loveland High and they were wonderful for exploring photography, sculpture and jewelry making, rare mediums to find at public schools. An enthusiastic art teacher makes a huge impact for a young creative and I’ve remained in contact with them. My junior year of high school I was fortunate enough to spend a summer at Interlochen Arts Camp, which helped me develop a portfolio to get a scholarship to attend the Kansas City Art Institute where I honed in on painting as my primary medium. Following graduation, I lived in Santa Fe where we had a second gallery at the time that I managed for a few years while also creating artwork; then returned to Loveland where I currently live, work and create.

My specialty is oil painting. I have a couple series right now, abstract landscapes and representational custom pet portraits. It’s nice to have the freeing intuitive work of the landscapes balanced by the tighter animal paintings. I love doing both.

2. What is your inspiration, in life and in art?
I am inspired by nature. I love to visually take in the expansive plains of Colorado with ever changing skies. I’m equally inspired by animals and helping groups who advocate for them. Proceeds from my ‘Happiness Is’ pet portrait series help me contribute to animal welfare organizations. I love to give back through my art.
The use of stacked colors in my landscape paintings represent one’s goals and ambitions laid out before them; and the sky is the space to contemplate new ideas. The horizon is where dreams and aspirations meet.

3. Describe the Governor’s Art Show. What makes it special? What is the draw for residents?
I am very proud to be juried in for my 10th time. It is wonderful to be part of such a unique show that gives back to the community through its sales. The 32nd Colorado Governor’s Art Show and Sale is one of the largest juried fine art shows in the state. It runs through June 11th at the Loveland Museum. …

What makes it so special is that it is truly is an “Art with Heart” exhibit, the show benefits Loveland and Thompson Valley Rotary Clubs’ charitable projects and causes. One-third of the proceeds go to the Thompson Education Foundation’s Homeless Assistance Fund and additional funds go toward scholarships for local art students. Scholarship winners have a piece displayed in the show on the back wall. I have met them, and they are impressive young people with bright futures.

Since 2016, the Governor’s Art Show has had different jurors every year, and that makes each show so distinctive and shows off new artists purely by the aesthetic value of who juried. This makes the show fresh, diverse, and full of what Colorado artists are currently expressing. There are 62 artists on display. You will discover artists from all corners of the state, and there is something for everyone. … The caliber of artists in the show is unmatched. (https://governorsartshow.org)

​4. What is the history of Columbine Gallery? I understand that the physical gallery will be closing. Why and what are the plans for transitioning online? What will become of the building?
Yes, this is our final month of being open to the public as Columbine Gallery. …
My father (John Kinkade) founded the National Sculptors’ Guild in 1992 with a dozen sculptors who wished to find thoughtful public applications for their work. JK Designs is the design team that promotes and provides consultation for the Guild. Columbine Gallery was opened as a space to show the artwork by members of the National Sculptors’ Guild when cities and companies would come out to meet on large-scale commissions. We started out in a small space at 1032 Lincoln Ave. The gallery walls were used to showcase regional painters, and after moving to our current location 2683 N. Taft Ave., Columbine grew into one of Northern Colorado’s largest fine art galleries housing over 50 artists at one time, and the adjacent National Sculptors’ Guild Sculpture Garden filled with 85-100 sculptures year-round.

After 30 years, we have elected to refocus our time and energy on the National Sculptors’ Guild and placing large-scale artwork in commercial and public spaces. Many Lovelanders may be unaware that we have a full-scale public art business, placing over 550 significant monuments across the nation over the years. While we have thoroughly enjoyed working with art appreciators of all levels, the true passion has always been in the design team approach it takes to place great public art. That is how we started, and we are feeling it is time to devote ourselves to the Guild once again.

We will continue to sell much of the artwork online, (nationalsculptorsguild.com), which has become a popular choice among art collectors.  …

This transition to less show space also allows me to pursue more opportunities for my own artwork, and my father can continue to work on his philanthropic projects that often combine the arts and helping community. It has been a privilege to serve the community of Loveland and our amazing stable of artists over the years. We look forward to continuing to do so in a different capacity.

We are thrilled to see someone new take the space with new energy and ideas to make their own mark on this special art-filled city. The Taft Avenue gallery and garden will continue to showcase art as the new owner is currently working to open ‘par-a-dox fine arts’ this summer. There will be different artists and events that will renew the space with creative energy. It feels good that our legacy will continue in this way.

5. What are your favorite places to enjoy art in Loveland?
Columbine Gallery and Garden (through May), Benson Sculpture Garden, Loveland Museum, Artworks, Artspace, Downtown Loveland (rotating sculptures and the growing mural collection) some of the local restaurants have fun rotating artwork (Muse, Verboten, Henry’s, West End) and occasionally I grab a blizzard at the Dairy Queen and enjoy seeing sculptures on loan there too. Loveland is full of great art and artists everywhere you go.

Bonus: What advice would you give to aspiring artists?
Dream big, put in the hours, seek out those who support your efforts, and give back when you can.

Alyson Kinkade
Years in Loveland: 26
Occupation: Artist, Director at Columbine Gallery and the National Sculptors' Guild

Pamela Johnson | Assistant Editor
Pamela Johnson is an award-winning journalist with two decades invested in the community of Loveland. She covers education, county government, environmental issues, outdoor recreation and whatever else she finds along the way. johnsonp@reporter-herald.com  Follow Pamela Johnson @RHPamelaJ

NSG Fellow, Jane DeDecker continues to amaze us with her recent monuments to women in Seneca Falls and now Estes Park. She is making history as she honors these historic figures, bringing to light the contributions of phenomenal women, sculpted by a phenomenal woman.

This link has some great pics of the artist and includes some connections to the subjects. https://www.eptrail.com/.../10/01/womens-monument-dedicated/
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By WENDY RIGBY | wrigby@eptrail.com | Estes Park Trail-Gazette
PUBLISHED: October 1, 2021 at 1:15 p.m. | UPDATED: October 4, 2021 at 10:57 a.m.

​On a chilly autumn afternoon, a large crowd gathered to participate in the dedication of the Estes Park Women’s Monument. The statues sit on a piece of land donated by the Town of Estes Park along the river walk. Twelve historical and current female leaders who have impacted the town’s rich heritage are honored in this newest public art installation.

“This was a widespread, grassroots effort,” said Ron Wilcocks, Chairman of the Estes Park Women’s Monument Committee. “Hundreds of people helped make it happen. The community came through in a big way.”

Speaking on behalf of the Estes Park Woman’s Club, Judy Schaffer commented, “These were not just ladies who sat around. They laid trails. They funded libraries. The supported the town as a community. They gave a legacy to the more contemporary women we are honoring.”

Members of the Town Board of Trustees were there, along with Mayor Wendy Koenig who is one of the 12 women honored in bronze sculpture.

​“This is a momentous occasion,” Koenig noted. “This monument makes visible the women who nurtured this community.”

Town Administrator Travis Machalek called the monument “long overdue.”
The centerpiece figure of the picture is Eleanor Hondius, an early female leader in Estes Park. Her son, 97-year-old Pieter Hondius who still lives in Estes Park, was on hand to see his mother honored in this lasting way.

“These were strong-minded, determined and focused women,” she said. “We owe a debt to these pioneers for what Estes Park is today.”

Noting that creating public sculptures is a “team sport,” DeDecker thanked all of the donors who collectively contributed more than $100,000 for the project. She also thanked the town employees who helped prepare the site and will keep it beautiful year round.

Kinkade stated; "I delivered the commissioned paintings to Platte River Power Authority today. (wearing mask and gloves!) I’m thrilled to be part of their permanent collection in their beautiful new building. Special thanks to Anderson Mason Dale Architects for the selection and a gorgeous space for my art to hang. And thanks Columbine Gallery for the sale.

I love this painting, "Vast, Front Range Sunset Symphony" and I love that it will be in a space that embraces environmental stewardship; keeping the landscapes that inspire my art around."
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Platte River Power Authority is a not-for-profit utility that generates and delivers safe, reliable, environmentally responsible and financially sustainable energy and services to its owner communities of Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland. Platte River's generation portfolio includes thermal, hydro, wind and solar resources.
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#PublicArt #AlysonKinkade #AKfineArt #ContemporaryLandscape #FrontRange #Colorado #PlatteRiverPowerAuthority #andersonmasondale #andersonmasondalearchitects #SkyScape #Mountains #Sunset #Beauty #sennelier #OilPaint #SimpleBeauty #Nature #Power

Make sure you check out the latest community mural by our artist Scott Freeman while visiting Loveland’s art scene.

“THE KISS” – Loveland Version, 15 x 15 feet. Feb,2020.

“2020 is our fourth year to create a giant community art piece in downtown Loveland, Colorado. For the design each year I’ve spoofed a famous fine art painting, giving each one a Valentine’s Day twist and a nod to Loveland.

This year I chose Austrian painter, Gustav Klimt, and his iconic 1908 painting, The Kiss. If you look closely you can see Dan Cupid aiming his arrow at the couple. Dan Cupid is the character who shows up in the special postmark each year for Loveland’s famous valentine re-mailing program. He’s kind of a Loveland mascot, at least around Valentine’s Day, so he made his way into the design this year.”  -Scott Freeman

#CommunityMural #ScottFreeman #Loveland #Colorado #TheKiss #Klimt #GustavKlimt #AfterKlimt #AroundLoveland #PaintByPanel #Mural #DowntownLoveland #Art #Community @ Loveland, Colorado

We're very pleased to be representing painter Scott Freeman. We will be promoting Scott's public art murals in addition to his beautiful smaller works. We are especially excited about the community-building murals he's developed which allows for individuals to be a part of the bigger picture. learn more about Scott Freeman

Stop by the gallery to see some examples currently on display with Amy Laugesen #Ceramics and Carol Gold #bronze. Or shop online from the comfort of your home. Want something large-scale?  email us to commission something new.

#ContemporaryFigurativeArt #FineArt #Landscape #Portrait #commissionswelcome #LiveWithArt  #CommunityMural #PublicArt #FeedYourCreativeSpirit 

Yes, there's a hippo in Embassy Suites.

​As NSG Fellow Tim Cherry's bronze hippo sculpture Roundbottomus Hippopotamus awaits its permanent placement as the site is being prepped, she will greet visitors to Loveland in the Lobby of the Embassy Suites Convention Center.

The National Sculptors' Guild will install the hippo this Spring in Little Rock as a part of their extensive Public Art Program. Stay tuned for updates.

One of our artists, Michael Warrick, recently completed a project that has been in the works for a number of years. This collaborative design team project commemorating the Bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase, Little Rock, Arkansas involved Michael Warrick of Little Rock, AR; fellow artist Aaron P. Hussey of Baton Rouge, LA; and Mesa Landscape Architects. 

“Straight Lines on a Round World,” was commissioned by the Committee for Louisiana Purchase Bicentennial Monument and represents more than a decade of planning. A 21-foot high sculpture featuring a large glass and metal compass with surveyors' tools balanced against it sits on a 32-foot round. The continental U.S. is outlined on the face of the compass with the total land area of the Louisiana Purchase etched into it. Materials used include Bronze, Stainless Steel, Tempered Glass and Concrete.
    
The sculpture commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Louisiana Purchase survey is located in downtown Little Rock in front of the Statehouse Convention Center at 101 E. Markham St. in Little Rock.  

The survey began in October of 1815, when government surveyors set out heading north and west from the Mississippi River, walking between the Arkansas and St. Francis rivers; the point at which their paths crossed, at the juncture of what are now Monroe, Lee and Phillips counties in east Arkansas, became the starting place for the survey of the entire Louisiana Territory. That spot is now marked with a National Historic Monument.

We have a fun followup to our November post: Pueblo Chile Mural painted by Teresa Vito. Her winning Logo is on its way to becoming a Colorado License Plate...the logo image was taken from Vito's oil painting that was specifically commissioned by the Pueblo Chile Growers Association for the purpose of a brand logo. The highly successful painting was done by Teresa Vito, who lives in Pueblo.

Vito spoke with Colorado Matters host Nathan Heffel on Colorado Public Radio last Tuesday about the proposed Pueblo Chile License Plate. She admits, she was taken aback by a couple of the questions, especially when asked about Chile recipes. But like her paintings, she nailed it. listen here

CPR's Shanna Lewis writes... "Longtime Pueblo oil painter Teresa Vito never thought she'd see her artwork on cars cruising Interstate 25. But that could be a reality soon, if a new special license plate featuring Pueblo Chiles is approved by the state legislature this session. 

Last year, Vito was asked by the Pueblo Chile Growers Association to create artwork that could be used to promote Pueblo Chiles, also known as Mirasol Chiles. She painted two pieces: a rural landscape and a detail showing the chiles close up.

"I saw the label as a symbol of place -- Pueblo," Vito said, adding the association wanted something that would look like an old fashioned label from the 1920s or 30s for preserves and other produce. Those labels often featured rural landscapes and whatever produce was inside. 

However, following a conversation between State Representative Daneya Esgar and Pueblo County Commissioner Buffie McFadyen, Vito's work went to another level. After collecting at least 3,000 signatures to prove citizen support, Esgar introduced a bill to the legislature -- it's currently under consideration in the State House of Representatives."  .... listen to the CPR interview, and more

Representative Daneya Esgar presented the Pueblo Chile license plate bill at the State Capitol Thurs. Feb. 2. The bill passed through the House Transportation committee and moves onto House Appropriations before being considered on the house floor. Stay updated

As we enter the New Year, we have great anticipation of fun, artful moments as we Celebrate our 25th Anniversary of dedication to the Arts, Artists and our Patrons. 

Columbine Gallery and the NSG sculpture Garden are full of great paintings and sculptures ready for your collection by our 50 represented artists. In honor of our 25th, we've traced back information on the building that houses all this beautiful artwork by getting in touch with the architect. See what we discovered. We also have our annual shows to look forward to this Spring, Summer and Fall. We hope to see you at any and all, plus a few times in between. 

JK Designs and the National Sculptors' Guild have a number of large-scale projects already in the works this year. We look forward to sharing these exciting art statements with you as we complete and install them. We are finalists in other placements, and designing other concepts that we hope to also see actualized this year. 

We wish you a wonderful 2017 & look forward to continuing to assist you in the practice of  Living with Art.

Welcome Denver-based mural artist Zach Howard to Columbine Gallery, we are excited to be working with Zach on significant public art murals in addition to smaller works for home art collections. Paintings will be on display in the gallery in July.

"It is a primary goal to continue evolving as an artist reaching as many people as possible. The intention behind each of my murals is to create imagery that is exciting and memorable. I enjoy telling a story with my art, whether it's a historical theme, like "Long Beach Pier Underwater"; an environmental piece, such as "Swimming Eli"; or a musical theme, like the "Musical Robots." Many murals have been commissioned by private business clients, like the coral reef painted for a sushi restaurant. I have also successfully worked with community members on Public Art murals, such as "Tree Wave”.
 
I enjoy creating with as many mediums and canvases as i can manage. including large scale murals, comics, apparel and prints. I work with acrylics, oils, spray paint, graphite, charcoal, colored pencil. markers, photoshop, illustrator, and silkscreening.  It is important to me that the viewer can emerge and get lost in the imagery, creating their own story from the experience."  - Zach Howard

Learn more about Zach Howard and see examples of his incredible painting.

National Sculptor's Guild Fellow Sandy Scott's bronze geese "Spirit of the Wild Things" in downtown Fort Collins is captured in the snow by VisitFtCollins

click to view our Spring newsletter Art Events, Recent Public Art Placements and New Arrivals in the Gallery Thank you for living with art  --- Art Appreciators are our favorite kind of people! Happy Spring! enter TAXday between 3/15-4/15 for a special incentive on your next online purchase.