Artists of the Plains Insights

By Melissa Peterson

December 26, 2003

Difficult to believe another year is at an end. The Artist of the Plains Art Gallery did well in 2003. Several paintings were sold, along with lots of wooden bowls and wall hangings. Several of our members did well at regional art shows. We joined the Southeastern Colorado Art Trails coalition. Several art classes were offered with good attendance and the doors are still open. All fine accomplishments! At this time we would like to extend a huge thank you to all those who patronized the gallery and supported us through donations. Without you we would not be open today.

The gallery hosted the annual Christmas party on the 16^th and several artists and guests celebrated with a pot of hardy homemade soup, courtesy of Bonnie Lessenden, and many other delicious goodies brought by club members. Jo Shoemaker, a baker of fine pastries at Our Place Restaurant, shared her baking talents with us as well. You can check out Jo’s great pies and baked goods for yourselves!

During the club meeting, prior to the Christmas party, members agreed to elect new board members in January. You’ll have to wait till next year to find out the outcome. It has been a good year for the gallery and we all want to thank you for your support and patronage. Please continue to stop by and browse and chat with the volunteer artists.

Homegrown in Eads, Terry Lea Laird graduated from Eads High School and went on to attend college in Gunnison, where he graduated with a degree in art….and perhaps skiing! He returned to Eads to student teach and then decided to take over the family farm responsibilities from his grandfather, Roy Sipcey. Terry continues to farm today. He is a COOP board member, and is involved with 4-H, community activities, and volunteers at the Methodist church. He also served as the first vice-president for the newly formed art club. Terry is a former Boy Scout and was eligible for his Eagle badge and recognition just before the troop dissolved, leaving him unable to receive the most prestigious honor in Scouting. It was a red-letter day for him when his son, Bruce, received his Eagle badge in a short ceremony last year.

Terry substitutes in Eads High School. He has three children, two of whom attend college. He is married to Areta Blooding Laird and they live in town. Terry paints in watercolor and he also makes fine silver jewelry. In the past he has made unusual, lovely silver earrings which represent specific ranching brands. He also uses old wooden posts and rusty tin to make funky geese.

Please stop by the gallery and check out Terry’s paintings and jewelry. He has an easy-going personality and enjoys good conversation. He is also a talented artist and a real asset to the club and the gallery. Please stop by to see Terry’s art and jewelry, and check out the Christmas Boutique as well. We will be closed Christmas Day through New Year’s Day.