Five Years with My Art Community

Today, I renewed my membership with the Women’s Caucus for Art Colorado Chapter (WCACO). Beginning a new year by reaffirming my connection to this art community has given me a reason to reflect on how far I’ve come since joining five years ago.

When I first joined WCACO, I had been retired for a year, unsure of what to create or where to showcase my art. Today, I’ve exhibited my work in every WCACO member show. These non-juried exhibitions have been pivotal, providing both the motivation to create and the confidence to share my art with others.

My first WCACO member show, September 2020. An all-female mariachi band performed at the “Reflections of Culture” exhibition, a collaboration with the Chicano Humanities and Arts Council (CHAC), March 2024. A WCACO social gathering 2024.

Back then, I was attending artist talks and had only a handful of connections within the art community. Now, I’m proud to count many talented women artists as friends. These relationships extend beyond WCACO, enriching my connections throughout Colorado’s art scene.

In the beginning, I watched my peers, inspired by what they were accomplishing with their art. After years of observing, this year I accomplished two of my own goals. The first was becoming a member of the D’art 360 Gallery, a co-op gallery. My second goal was to have my first solo show—which happened at D’art 360 Gallery in August 2024—a dream I had no idea how to make happen five years ago.

Submitting to juried shows once felt out of reach. Today, I regularly enter open calls, and am thrilled to have my work accepted on occasion.

I didn’t know how to curate an exhibit. With mentoring, I’ve curated/co-organized three art shows featuring incredible women artists. Organizing exhibits has expanded my perspective and enriched my life in countless ways.

Five years ago, I was a spectator. Today, I actively contribute as a board member of WCACO. This organization—and its members—have been generous with their time, guidance, and support. They provided a safe environment for me to learn and grow.

Of course, this journey has also required effort on my part. I’ve worked hard to nurture relationships, engage with the organization, and develop my art. But I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without WCACO and the incredible women who make up this community. Two VERY SPECIAL highlights for me were visiting Melanie Yazzie’s home studio and Senga Nengudi’s art installation.

A heartfelt thank you to Carrie McKenna for encouraging me to join WCACO. My art life is far richer by being part of this community. Happy 2025! I’m excited to see what the next five years will bring.

For anyone interested in learning more about WCACO, visit www.wcaco.org. Information about the national organization is available at www.nationalwca.org.