3 minute read
Fine Art
Mountain Village’s burgeoning arts scene highlights local artisans
BY LINNE HALPERN
The town of Telluride, with its rich history and eclectic spirit, is widely regarded as a bustling hub of creativity and culture. What is perhaps less known, is that Mountain Village is quickly establishing its very own arts scene, nestled within the destination’s unique alpine aesthetic. Take the quick Gondola ride to Mountain Village and not only will you be rewarded with some of the region’s most impeccable views, you’ll also be treated to the beauty of public art and the inspired work of local artisans.
“There is a place for art everywhere,” says Zoe Dohnal, the Town of Mountain Village’s director of operations and development. Dohnal is spearheading the recently established Public Arts Commission, the committee that was formed after the success of the refurbished Gondola cabin project in Heritage Plaza. Eleven Gondola-cabins-turned-individualized-dining-pods are now wrapped in the work of local painters, illustrators, and photographers — a permanent installation that will rotate its offering every few years. “It’s a point of pride for us to be able to highlight our region’s talent,” says Dohnal, who encourages all creatives to pitch the commission with out-of-thebox ideas. “Our beautiful pedestrian plazas, our nature trails — there’s so much potential for public art to be a huge asset throughout our community.”
In addition to public art, Mountain Village is home to Rinkevich Gallery, the solo exhibition space of esteemed painter Margaret Rinkevich. Known for her large-scale works in a colorful Abstract Expressionist style, the gallery is a must-see stop along any stroll through the village’s commercial district. “Our surroundings are stunning here — nature is pretty perfect and I’ve never felt the need to represent it. I’ve always been more interested in what’s going on internally and how that translates onto canvas,” Rinkevich shares of her inspirations, an aesthetic outcome that complements the modern mountain architecture seen throughout Mountain Village.
The Telluride Arts District’s monthly Art Walk event has expanded to the Village as well, with artists and business owners hopeful that extended hours and tasty treats entice visitors to continue their art-filled evenings with all that Mountain Village has to offer. That includes the libations and lively atmospheres at neighboring establishments Communion Wine Bar and Telluride Distillery, both of which are spaces committed to fostering artistic community in Mountain Village and showcasing local talent.
“We’re always looking for ways to make Mountain Village a better destination for both locals and tourists alike — that’s the whole idea behind the wine bar,” says Winston Kelly, owner of Communion. Currently, Communion, located in the Franz Klammer breezeway, features the work of photographer Orion Willits while the Distillery’s tasting rooms, also in the breezeway, features the work of photographer Tyler Sandstrom. Of the decision to highlight Sandstrom’s photography, Joanna Smith, owner of Telluride Distillery, says, “He captures novel moments from his outdoor adventures, which fits perfectly with the beauty of Telluride. The photographs take any onlooker to that adventure, where you can smell the fresh air, hear the wind in the brush and water flowing from a distance.”
Both Kelly and Smith are excited to see Mountain Village’s cultural scene continue to grow as more visitors find their way up the mountain this winter, especially as Communion begins its daily après ski service and Sunday dinner series that presents one-of-a-kind menus created by an array of regional chefs and culinary talents. “I think that highlighting the work of local creatives helps to cultivate a sense of cultural identity,” shares Kelly. “When you walk into our establishment, it’s so important that you see and taste things that are produced by the people who live here.”
Zoe Dohnal
