Expressions in watercolor - Above, left: Artist Jenny Eggleston poses next to her “Garden Larkspur,” painted on mineral paper. Above, right: Guests mingle and share conversations surrounded by watercolor influences. PHOTOS BY OMAYRA ACEVEDO[/caption]

Watercolor is a translucent water-based medium typically applied by brush on white paper. It’s composed of finely ground pigment combined with water and gum arabic, packaged in cakes of color or “pans” or tubes of thickened paint.

The medium is a colored pigment in a water-soluble binder. The paint dissolves upon making contact with water, allowing it to spread with greater ease of use.

On Friday, September 8, 2023, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., artists and art enthusiasts gathered at the Gilpin County Arts Association gallery to support the 32nd annual Colorado Watercolor Society (CWS) State Show.

Guests enjoyed beverages and snacks as they meandered from room to room, taking in all the colorful and expressive paintings on the walls. Around the rooms, friends and strangers shared conversations about inspiration, choice of colors, medium preference, and travel.

By 6:30 p.m., the award ceremony began, with 12 awards distributed to artists on display. Awards varied from cash rewards to art supplies. The crowd cheered for recipients and for all the artists whose talents were showcased.

The CWS is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) fine arts organization based in Denver. The organization is “dedicated to upholding the highest standards and principles of art and to promote, encourage, educate, and foster an interest in fine art in all media, especially watercolor.”

The CWS started in 1954 when it was established as an art group. By 1957, the group held its first public exhibition at the Mile High Center of Denver. The CWS became a member of the Western Federation of Watercolor Societies forty years after its first exhibition.

From beginners to experts, the CWS has more than 300 members who practice various media. Aside from organizing workshops and offering members opportunities to sell and display art, the Colorado Watercolor Society donates to many art-oriented projects in the state.

The 32nd annual show was proudly hosted by the Gilpin County Arts Association (GCAA) and in partnership with the CWS. The show runs through October 15, so if you missed the opening reception, add it to your calendar before the next show begins.

Colors are known for evoking sincere human emotions, and regardless of one’s watercolor expertise, there’s something special about spending a moment in front of a painting that takes you into a world of colorful secrets.

To learn more about the Colorado Watercolor Society, visit https://www.coloradowatercolorsociety.org/.