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.
Danielle SeeWalker
Arapahoe Libraries’ Featured Artists program showcases the work of local artists who use their art to shed light on diverse communities, discuss history and social justice and spark important community conversations.
Danielle SeeWalker is Húŋkpapȟa Lakȟóta and a citizen of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in North Dakota. Danielle is an artist, writer, activist and mother of two based in Denver, Colorado. Her visual artwork often incorporates the use of mixed media and experimentation with traditional Native American materials, scenes and messaging. Her artwork pays homage to her identity as a Lakȟóta wíŋyaŋ (woman). She is passionate about redirecting the narrative toward an accurate and insightful representation of contemporary Native America while still acknowledging historical events. Danielle serves as co-chair for the Denver American Indian Commission. She recently published her first book, Still Here: A Past to Present Insight of Native American People & Culture.
A collection of Danielle’s artwork will be on display at Koelbel Library for the month of November, Native American Heritage Month.
Please join us for an opening reception for featured artist Danielle SeeWalker. The program will kick off with an artist talk followed by a reception and viewing of the gallery. Light refreshments will be served.
Artist's Website, opens a new window
Michael Roe
I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a major in Illustration and a minor in Advertising Design in 1975 from Utah State University. My professional career was spent in graphic arts and, after I retired, I have been focused on painting.
I work in pastel, acrylic and oil and love painting landscapes in an impressionistic style. I have a wide range of subjects that I enjoy painting including landscapes, animals and people.
I am a member with the Pastel Society of Colorado and have attended classes at the Denver Art Students League. I was an award winner in the 2019 Colorado Artist Show and was selected to be in “The Small Works” show with the Pastel Society of Colorado in 2021. I received an award at the 2022 Members Show with the Pastel Society of Colorado for my painting, “Great Basin.”
What is your favorite painting?
I have two favorite paintings in the show, "Continental Divide" and "Snow in Yellowstone", these two paintings show a wide range in handling the pastel medium.
What motivates you to paint?
When I paint, I try to let the viewer see what excited me in the image. One of my favorite sayings is that I paint to please myself...and the feeling is contagious!
Who are your favorite artists?
Marla Baggeta, pastel artist, Donald Putman, Glen Edward, my illustration professor, Nicoli Fechin and Quang Ho.
What message do you want to convey to the viewer?
The color that excites me and the spirit that I saw.
Artist's Website, opens a new window
Thad J. McCauley: Check Your Head
I am a visual artist and public school art teacher. This series of works is inspired by the Beastie Boys album Check Your Head. Each image is based on one of the songs from this 90's classic!
What is your favorite piece in the show and why?
My favorite piece is Mark On the Bus, because I wrote and delivered a speech about this song in my High School Public Speaking class. Here are the lyrics:
"Good morning
Time to get up and go to work
I ride on the bus into the city everyday
I sit on my seat and I dream myself away
I dream I'm on an island with that foxy lady too
But when I awaken I must be mistaken I'm on third avenue
Won't you take me away and take away me?
Won't you take me away and take away me?
Yeah
Alright, get off the bus
You're wild, man, wild
What're you saying? You're stupid
You should sleep late, man
It's just much easy on your constitution"
What motivates you to create?
I create art because it allows me to clear my mind and relax. The best part of the creative process is when you find a nirvana during the middle of your work time and you are focused on nothing else than the artwork.
Who are your biggest artists' influences?
I love the comic book style of Jim ‘Food One’ Mahfood, as well as the Sci-Fi world creation illustrations of Ralph McQuarrie.
What message do you want your art to convey to viewers?
Very simple… make and enjoy art, because art won’t hurt you!
