Arapahoe Libraries is proud to host art exhibits each month at Eloise May, Koelbel and Smoky Hill libraries. Library galleries offer the community a place to view a variety of art at no cost while also providing visibility to local artists. A volunteer art selection committee selects exhibits based on artistic quality, variety of exhibits and the suitability of format for each exhibit space.
Have a question about the galleries or interested in showcasing your art? Visit the Art Galleries page for more information.
Joan Hitchens: Joan of Art
Inspired by nature expressed through the magic of watercolors!
I love being out in nature and strive through my paintings to capture the beauty that surrounds me. Watercolors suit me very well as they reflect the light and shadows in addition to the rich colors of nature. Unexpected surprises or “magical moments” that occur with watercolors stimulate my creativity. Most of my paintings are done from photos that I have taken on adventures with my husband. We enjoy camping during the summer and spend two months out in nature.
The grandeur of nature continues to motivate me!
As an artist, nature inspires me. As an educator, my students Inspire me. I have been an art educator for 45 plus years as a public school teacher and also as private art teacher. I taught in Littleton Public Schools for 30 years and presently continue to teach private art classes. I am a firm believer that art is a “learned skill”. We can all be artists at some level! The arts are our “universal language” and such a vital part of our lives. I continually strive to enrich my personal and professional development as an artist and as an educator in order to be an advocate for the arts. The arts, visual and performing, have something to offer us all. They enrich our lives!
What is your favorite piece in the show?
I would have a hard time selecting one painting as my favorite as each painting has a special meaning. I usually paint from photos that I have taken on adventures with my husband. We enjoy camping in the summer and spend two months out in nature.
What motivates you to create?
As an artist, nature inspires me! Watercolors suit me very well as they reflect the light and shadows in addition to the rich colors of nature. Unexpected surprises or “magical moments” that occur with watercolors stimulate my creativity. The grandeur of nature continues to motivate me!
Biggest artist influences?
There have been many artists over the years that have influenced my work. Rick Brogan, a renowned local artist, is the most recent influence.
Message to viewers?
To enjoy our world around us; rather it be a place, a building, a bird, a flower….we live in a fascinating, beautiful world!
Ryan Costanzo
I've been a photographer my whole life, both professionally and as a hobby. Whenever I am out shooting, I inevitably notice the bug around me and start taking their photos. Several hours later I realize that my family has finished the hike without me, and I've barely left the parking lot. In the end I capture a close-up moment of a tiny world that mostly goes unnoticed.
