This August, the Depot Art Gallery in Littleton proudly celebrates its 63rd anniversary, showcasing over six decades of artistic transformation and creativity from local artists.
From August 5 to September 6, the gallery will host a special anniversary exhibition featuring 51 carefully selected pieces, chosen from more than 90 submissions by 36 talented artists.
Juror Hazel Z. Weckbach, an Englewood-born artist known for her skills and recognized as an ‘artist’s artist’ by peers, played a crucial role in selecting the works for this year’s exhibition, according to Tippy McIntosh, a Depot Art Gallery artist who coordinated the anniversary show.
The highlight of the exhibition will be the awards ceremony on August 8, where Weckbach will judge the submitted artworks and present accolades such as Best in Show, Second Place, Third Place, and three Honorable Mentions.
Visitors can look forward to a diverse array of standout artworks at this year’s anniversary exhibition.
Among the featured pieces, Teresa Maone’s oil painting, “Mariachi,” stands out for its exceptional use of shadow value, capturing the dynamic energy of a performer creating music.
Joe Sturniolo’s watercolor titled “The Apple” poignantly depicts the deep relationship between a grandfather and his grandson, with the young boy prominently featured.
Jacqueline Shuler’s painting “Eathern Beauty” showcases inviting colors that evoke thoughts of what lies beneath the earth’s surface, while Pat Foster’s humorous piece, “A Good Donkey Laugh,” appeals to audiences of all ages, offering a light-hearted perspective on art.
Housed in a historic 1888 Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad train depot, the gallery has a rich history.
The building, which was retired from railroad service in 1965, was designated a historic landmark in 1969. After extensive restoration efforts, it officially reopened as an art gallery in 1978, thanks to community dedication.
Today, the Depot Art Gallery serves as a vibrant hub for fine art, having expanded from its origins with just 10 artists in 1962 to a roster of over 60 professional and acclaimed artists.
The Littleton Fine Arts Guild, a nonprofit organization that operates the Depot Art Gallery, was established by 10 women painters in 1962.
Now, more than 60 artists representing various mediums, including watercolor, photography, and even jewelry, are part of the guild, as noted by guild member Peggy Deitz.
McIntosh emphasizes the democratic nature of the guild, which elects a president and board members to manage bylaws and ensure efficient operation.
The physical gallery on Powers Avenue is owned by the City of Littleton and is maintained by both the Littleton Museum and the Littleton Fine Arts Guild.
As the gallery looks ahead, McIntosh mentioned its commitment to adapt to current trends in the art world, aiming to incorporate new techniques, expressions, and emerging artists.
Artists interested in joining the Littleton Fine Arts Guild are encouraged to apply online through the Depot Art Gallery website.
An interview process with the membership committee will follow, during which applicants present their work for consideration.
“The Littleton Fine Arts Guild strives to be an inclusive and respectful organization focused on advancing fine art exposure in the community and beyond,” McIntosh said.
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