GILPIN COUNTY - Teachers never really know the effect they have on their students beyond the assignments, grades, and feedback. As the art teacher at Gilpin County School District since 2001, I have had thousands of students come and go in and out of my classrooms.

Thousands upon thousands of creative acts culminating in beautiful, heartfelt, humorous, and thought-provoking creations. It has been a privilege to see so many students put their best foot forward and build pride and confidence in their own individual creative development.

I have seen some students all the way through their educational journey and some for only a few years. Whatever the case, I want to celebrate everyone who has spent time at Gilpin County School as a student or a staff member.

As I finish my tenure as a full-time teacher for Gilpin schools at the end of this school year, I am excited to collaborate with the Gilpin County Arts Association Gallery at Washington Hall to organize a 25 Year Retrospective Art Exhibit for past and present Gilpin County Schools students and staff.

The exhibit is not only for visual art, but also music, dance, theater, creative writing, and really any other forms of creative expression past students and staff would like to share.

Just like in my classes, I really want to see Art displayed with confidence and pride. So I charge eligible participants to let go of their creative fears, and recognize that whether their creativity is done formally or informally it could be wonderful to put it on display at this exhibit.

I have been reaching out to students on Facebook and I am working on networking to connect with more past students and staff. There is still much to be done, and with a deadline set for November 30, a short period of time to gather together a submission. I’m calling the 30th of November a soft deadline. Anyone who has the desire to participate in the exhibit contact me to discuss their timeline.

We will also be accepting digital submissions and printing them for display. This is especially convenient for people who have moved out of our area.

If you are reading this, and you know of someone who you think should participate, please pass on this information. On the flier in the ad on this page, there is a QR code for submission. The requirements are to provide a simple bio, such as when you attended Gilpin schools and where your life has taken you, or your creative interests, etc., a headshot photo, and digital images of the work being submitted. If you have any questions you can direct them to the school email: chalsted@gilpin.k12.co.us.

The art exhibit is set to start on January 10, 2025, with an opening reception on January 18, 2025. The exhibit will be at the historic Gilpin County Arts Association Galleries at Washington Hall at 117 Eureka Street in Central City.