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.
Angi Beauheim
Angi Beauheim is a watercolor artist in Loveland, Colorado. Her work is mostly cats in (or as) space. Occasionally the muse requires a small deviation, resulting in a chicken, dog, rat, or other critter.
What message do you want your art to convey to viewers?
Cats in Space are a fun exploration of shape and color. They make people smile. And they're a gentle reminder to stay curious.
Eryca Reyna Bettoni
I use various mediums such as paint, colored pencil, and in this case pen and ink to story tell, amuse and offer new perspectives. I take inspiration from many sources such as old newspaper comic strips, children's book literature, nature, and language. I grew up bilingual and now love using visual storytelling to enhance, find levity and grow my understanding of written and spoken words.
What is your favorite piece in the show and why?
I don't think I have a specific favorite, but I really enjoy creating small details in the patterns of textiles, furniture, textures and small jokes that are found after looking for a bit. I think that "Couch Potato" is a good example of this.
What motivates you to create?
It often depends on the moment but overall observing the world and learning new ideas and techniques is always a big source of joy and inspiration.
Who are your biggest artist influences?
For this specific collection of work, I would say the old comic section of the newspaper and my love of children's book illustrations. Some favorites are Bill Watterson, Adam Rex and Quinten Blake. I appreciate how much can be conveyed with just a bit of linework, brush strokes and a sense of humor.
What message do you want your art to convey to viewers?
Many of these works were inspired by misinterpretations of idioms that many native English speakers find commonplace. I hope viewers get a bit of joy and enjoy seeing these sayings in a new way.