AvidLifestyle February 2022 Issue

AvidLifestyle.com

FEBRUARY 2022

PRIME STEAKHOUSES magnets for destination dining Gifts of love for a SPECIAL VALENTINE

CURATING ART for a new point of view

Altered Perspectives Journey behind the scenes into the making of MEOW WOLF DENVER | CONVERGENCE STATION

FEBRUARY 2022 | $8.95

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ROOTED IN

COLORADO DTC • Cherry Creek • LoDo • Fort Collins

Residential • Commercial • Leasing • Property Management • Mortgage • Relocation

Over an Acre of Fine Furniture

IN-STOCK & READY FOR DELIVERY

C-470 & University | 303.741.4240 2550 E. County Line Rd Highlands Ranch CO

www.coloradostyle.com

sold in the preserve 5651 SOUTH BEECH CIRCLE GREENWOOD VILLAGE 5 beds :: 5 baths :: 6,224 sqft :: 0.81 acre lot :: $4.035M **REPRESENTED BUYER

303.817.0192 | MARKUSDREAMHOMES.COM

new listing in firelight 2637 DANBURY AVENUE HIGHLANDS RANCH 6 beds :: 5 baths :: 6,324 sqft :: 0.25 acre lot :: $1.3M

coming soon in englewood

cherry creek schools 4 bedrooms

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All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) nor Kentwood Real Estate shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.

CONTENTS

// february 2022

departments

14 16

SETTING THE STAGE Letting your love shine all month long.

By Hillary Locke Mujica ON THE AGENDA Black History Month, St. Valentine, Super Bowl Sunday, Wynton Marsalis, Romeo and Juliet, Winter Carnival and more.

local flavors

22 28

PRIME TERRITORY Well done steakhouses.

By John Lehndorff GAMES ON It’s all fun and games ... and food.

By John Lehndorff

dwelling well

32

ART FOR A CHANGE Bringing a new perspective to your home and your life.

By Heather Shoning

ready to wear

PHOTO: SERENA STEVENS

FEATURED

38

From dream to reality, how Willis Woods and the creative team at RiNo Sign Works brought the immersive world of Meow Wolf Denver | Convergence Station to life.

48 52

HUGS AND KISSES Gifts with heart.

By Hillary Locke Mujica OH L’AMORE The look of love from the inside out.

By Maren Bartels

inf luencers

54 58

By Kastle Waserman

THE POWER TO PAINT Finding passion through unexpected experiences.

By Jessica Hughes TRANSFORMATION How one woman’s mission created a ripple effect of giving with The Butterfly Foundation.

By Jessica Hughes

wayfarers ON THE COVER: Meow Wolf Denver | Convergence Station PHOTO: Serena Stevens

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ARTISTS’ RETREATS Communing with nature.

By Heather Shoning

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February 2022 // vol. 3 // no. 11 PRESIDENT/GROUP PUBLISHER Allen J. Walters PUBLISHER Chris Phillips art & editorial EDITOR Hillary Locke Mujica CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jani Duncan Smith CONTRIBUTORS E.J. Carr, Chad Chisholm, Jessica Hughes, Ehren Joseph, John Lehndorff, Kathryn O’Shea-Evans, Erroll Perkins, Heather Shoning, Kimberly Lord Stewart, Valerie Ward, Kastle Waserman sales, marketing & advertising VP OF SALES & MARKETING Lori Perry

Discover Hilltop Reserve, Denver’s brand new locally

owned and operated senior living community designed with you in mind. A community rich with amenities, first-class services and invigorating programs focusing on safety, wellness and revitalizing the mind, body and spirit. Ideally located at the nexus of the Hilltop, Crestmoor and Cherry Creek North neighborhoods. Hilltop Reserve also makes it easy to stay connected to everything you love. All with the added benefit of a modern luxury lifestyle that helps you simplify life while remaining independant and engaged!

DIRECTOR OF SALES Mike Carver DIGITAL STRATEGIST Katie Macleay BUSINESS/OPERATIONS MANAGER Cindy Palmer EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jon Rizzi ART DIRECTOR, Colorado AvidGolfer Michelle M. Gutierrez ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: chris@avidlifestyle.com EDITORIAL INQUIRIES AND LETTERS: hillary@avidlifestyle.com CUSTOMER SERVICE: 720.493.1729 MAILING ADDRESS: 6143 S. Willow Drive, #406 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 AvidLifestyle (ISSN 2642-0562) is published twelve times a year by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC, and printed by Publication Printers Inc. volume three, number eleven. 6143 S. Willow Drive, #406, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. Order your personal subscription to AvidLifestyle at avidlifestyle.com or by calling 720.493.1729.

Subscriptions are available at the rate of $12 per year. Copyright © 2022 by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send address changes to AvidLifestyle, 6143 S. Willow Drive, #406, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. The magazine welcomes editorial submissions but assumes no responsibility for the safekeeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other material.

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PAIGE SPIRANAC

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SETTING THE STAGE

THE COLORADO

HOME LIFE STYLE Our connection begins with home.

TALK OF THE TOWN

KNOW SOMEONE who should be featured in AvidLifestyle?

Tell me about them at hillary@avidlifestyle.com.

LETTING YOUR LOVE SHINE ALL MONTH LONG THIS ISSUE is a love letter to where we live. We counted the ways we love our home, our community, our state, and although the list is endless, we edited it down, leaving room for you to add to your own letter of affection to our treasured Colorado. It’s the coarseness and strength combined with acuteness and acquisitiveness that make us all feel alive here. We’re a state of risk-takers and dreamers, hearty souls with vision and persistence that allows us to let our love shine, and it’s a thing of beauty.

A case in point is the frontier mentality of Willis Wood and the team at RiNo Sign Works for their work on the critically acclaimed Meow Wolf | Convergence Station. We hope you’re as impressed as we are with their unique story and ability to bring the vision of Colorado artists to life in a very big way. You can tap into that passion by checking out our story on how art offers new perspectives by enhancing your surroundings. We also look at artist retreats and how the Colorado landscape allows for more creative outlets.

Colorado is filled with folks that “work hard and play harder” so it’s no wonder Pindustry is becoming a neighborhood attraction. With fun and games, coal oven pizzas and lively libations paired with epic mountain views and live music, it’s basically a love song to Colorado under one roof. And although the wild west is more refined these days, our steakhouses steal the show with approachable elegance and divine dishes. You can read about what makes them all distinctive and relevant this month.

E X P E R IE NC E D , T R U S T E D ADVI SOR.

LU XU RY REAL ESTAT E BROKER WITH LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

303.921.2964 csanders@livsothebysrealty.com www.ColeenSanders.com

Whether you’re looking for grand gestures of love or random acts of kindness, Cupid is letting those arrows fly this month so check out our gift guide filled with unique ways to show your love. Be warned though, these goodies have been known to shower gift-givers with hugs and kisses! Beyond gifts, we all know we must love ourselves before we can fully love someone else, so we spoke with some local experts on how to increase your loveliness from the inside out.

Although the world we live in hasn’t been all chocolate and roses lately, we spoke with some Coloradans who have transformed their heartaches and health issues into passion projects. These life-altering experiences have allowed them to share their hearts in ways that are positively impacting our entire community.

With all the dreamers, explorers, forward-thinkers and tenacious spirits in this great state of ours, there's so much to love! The best part is getting to share that love with others so to keep the postive vibes flowing. Please email me all the things you love about where we live and I’ll put together a communal list to inspire and ignite us! Now is the time to open our hearts, hug a little tighter and let our collective light shine brighter all month long.

With Gratitude,

Hillary Locke Mujica 14

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PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM

DELIVERING

// editor’s letter

Experience Romance 5085 South Syracuse Street, Denver Tech Center | www.shanahanssteakhouse.com | 303.770.7300

ON THE AGENDA

// can’t miss events

FEBRUARY Feb. 9 Feb. 1– 28 BLACK HISTORY MONTH Each February, Black History Month honors the achievements and contributions of African Americans to the country. Celebrate throughout the Denver metro area with lectures, dramatic performances and music.

VENUES THROUGHOUT THE DENVER-METRO denver.org

Feb. 3 GARDEN OF SOUND: AN EVENING WITH NATHAN HALL Recorded at Denver Botanic Gardens during his participation in the Land Line artist residency, Denverbased composer and artist Nathan Hall who uses music and sound as tools to explore a variety of fields including science, nature, fine arts, history and sexuality, shares behind the scenes of his newest electronic soundscape at the Gardens. Experience these unique sounds and learn more about the inspirations and techniques behind his work. Previous works include traditional classical pieces for chamber ensembles, experimental electronic pieces, sound sculptures and multimedia projects. BOTANIC GARDENS, Denver botanicgardens.org

SPINOSAURUS: LOST GIANT OF THE CRETACEOUS National Geographic Live presents German/Moroccan paleontologist Nizar Ibrahim, a postdoctoral scholar in vertebrate anatomy and paleontology at the University of Chicago and 2014 National Geographic Emerging Explorer. Ibrahim scours the deserts of North Africa for clues to life in the Cretaceous period, when the area was a large river system teeming with a profusion of diverse life. In addition to unearthing many huge dinosaur bones, he has discovered fossil footprints and a new species of flying reptile with an 18-foot wingspan that lived 95 million years ago. JUNE SWANER GATES CONCERT HALL, Denver newmancenterpresents.com

Feb. 11 FAMILY MAKE AND TAKE: GARDEN VALENTINES Flowers and plants are used year-round to send messages of love, happiness and joy. Join us as we explore the different shapes, textures and colors of dried flowers, leaves and seeds. Decorate a Valentine’s Day ornament to share with loved ones using a variety of dried plant parts and crafting items. BOTANIC GARDENS, Denver botanicgardens.org

there’s more ➼

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ON THE AGENDA

// can’t miss events

Feb. 4 – 13 ROMEO AND JULIET It is one of the most beautiful yet tragic love stories of all time. Paired with Sergei Prokofiev’s stirring music, Derek Deane’s choreography—which demands exceptional levels of ballet technique, artistry and acting—makes for an evening of artistic grandeur that will take your breath away.

ELLIE CAULKINS OPERA HOUSE, Denver coloradoballet.org

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

BLACKHAUSTAVERN.COM | 303.568.9671 | 19501 EAST MAINSTREET | PARKER, CO

Feb. 4 – 20

THINKING ABOUT BUYING OR SELLING?

WINTER OLYMPIC GAMES Get ready to cheer on the red, white and blue at The XXIV Olympic Winter Games in Beijing.

US athletes to watch include Chloe Kim in the snowboard halfpipe, Jessie Diggins in cross-country skiing, Mikaela Shiffrin in alpine skiing, David Wise in the freeski halfpipe, Nathan Chen in men’s figure skating, Hilary Knight in hockey, Erin Johnson in speed skating, Chris Mazdzer in luge and many more!

TELEVISED/ BEIJING olympics.com

NANCY WALTERS

Professional, Trustworthy and Dedicated

Feb. 9 – 14 109TH ANNUAL STEAMBOAT SPRINGS’ WINTER CARNIVAL Steamboat has reveled in their bounty of trademark Champagne Powder since 1914 and boasts the oldest continuing winter carnival west of the Mississippi! The entire town is given over to ski racing and jumping, a parade featuring Steamboat’s skiing high school band (the only one in the United States) States) and the famous ski jöring events down Lincoln Avenue. Don’t miss the legendary Lighted Man and one of the largest fireworks display in the country. STEAMBOAT SPRINGS steamboatwintercarnival.com

720-220-5446

nwalters@kentwood.com nancywaltersrealtor.com

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ON THE AGENDA

// can’t miss events

Through March 6 LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS Littleton Town Hall Arts Center brings to life this dark musical comedy about a meek florist shop worker who discovers a new breed of plant. This newfound foul-mouthed foliage promises fame and fortune as long as he keeps feeding it BLOOD! LITTLETON TOWN HALL ARTS CENTER townhallartscenter.org

Feb. 20 – 24 Feb. 13 SUPER BOWL LVI The most expensive stadium ever built ($5.5 billion) will host the 56th Super Bowl this month. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or just in it for the ads, halftime show and game-time snacks, SoFi Stadium will be packed with nonstop action.

SOFI STADIUM, Los Angeles, Calif. nfl.com

Feb. 21 JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS The expressive, improvisational and swinging Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra brings a special night of music making to Boulder audiences.

MACKY AUDITORIUM CONCERT HALL, Boulder cupresents.org

WINTER PHOTO WORKSHOP IN ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK A special place to visit at any time of year, winter transforms the landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park into a magical snowcapped dreamworld. Hike and snowshoe through the breathtaking locations and learn how to capture these scenes behind the lens.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK, Estes Park rhapsodyinlight.com/p/rocky-mountain-natio

March 11 – 20 COLORADO BALLET THE WIZARD OF OZ Septime Webre’s dazzling production returns, bringing Dorothy and a whirlwind of your favorite characters back down the Yellow Brick Road. Webre’s whimsical and timeless choreography showcases the athleticism of each dancer on the journey to Emerald City. ELLIE CAULKINS OPERA HOUSE, Denver coloradoballet.org

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Creating Beautiful Colorado Homes Since 1927

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LOCAL FLAVORS

// dine out

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LOCAL FLAVORS

Prime Territory How Greenwood Village became THE UPSCALE STEAKHOUSE EPICENTER OF COLORADO

By John Lehndorff FROM THE MOMENT it was built, the Denver Tech Center had the beef.

Now, in this era of plant-based burgers and meatless Mondays, there is a steakhouse on virtually every corner in Greenwood Village. Shanahan’s Steakhouse is only a few blocks from Ruth’s Chris Steak House which is near Ocean Prime and Eddie V’s Prime Seafood.

The I-25 prime steakhouse corridor continues to the south at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, Eddie Merlot’s Prime Aged Beef & Seafood, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Perry’s Steakhouse.

There are more upscale steakhouses concentrated here than anywhere else in Colorado, including Denver. Credit the confluence of big business and a booming population, according to Marc Steron. The veteran restaurateur has a quarter century of sizzle under his belt as managing partner of Shanahan’s Steakhouse for 13 years and previously as general manager for 11 years at Del Frisco’s. He names the now-shuttered Brook’s Steak House and Morton’s of Chicago as the pioneering eateries.

“The Denver Tech Center has grown exponentially in terms of office space and residences, especially in recent years. The steakhouses are a magnet for weekend destination dining for families and couples who live nearby,” Steron says.

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// dine out

LOCAL FLAVORS

// dine out PHOTO: COURTESY SHANAHAN’S PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM

Steakhouses have gradually taken the place of fancy restaurants that were once considered “fine dining.”

“People enjoy steakhouses today for special meals but they are more approachable—formal, yet still upscale,” he says. Steakhouses are also the go-to option for business meals.

“People enjoy steakhouses today for special meals but they are more approachable— formal, yet still upscale.”

All eateries with “Steakhouse” in their name are not the same. According to Steron, prime steakhouses feature only the best meat—usually dry aged and grilled at high searing temperatures.

All offer a roster of steak toppings from lump crab to truffle butter, a red-heavy wine list and old-fashioned attentive service. Most famously, steakhouse menus are big on huge side dishes like creamed spinach and scalloped potatoes.

Shanahan’s—the one independent local prime steakhouse—has a unique attraction: Coach Mike.

— Marc Steron, Managing Partner,

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM

Shanahan’s Steakhouse

That’s Mike Shanahan, the legendary coach who guided the Denver Broncos to two Super Bowl wins. The lobby features memorabilia from his long football career. “People want to see the Super Bowl rings and remember. Whenever he’s here, Mike is always so gracious with everyone who wants to take a picture,” Steron says.

PHOTO: COURTESY SHANAHAN’S

PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM

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LOCAL FLAVORS

// dine out Tasting Down

THE TECH CENTER STEAKHOUSE TRAIL Editor’s Note: If you undertake this steakhouse tasting, we recommend walking between steakhouses given the heavy caloric load.

36-OUNCE WAGYU RIBEYE TOMAHAWK Shanahan’s Steakhouse shanahanssteakhouse.com

16-OUNCE RIBEYE

PHOTO: COURTESY EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD

Covid has been especially challenging for steakhouses designed for long, intimate indoor dinners, but most of these establishments survived because of a loyal customer base. “People still wanted food from their favorite restaurants, even at home” Steron says.

While steakhouse menus might seem to be frozen in time with the same dishes, the emphasis has shifted over time to include seafood, game meats and diverse beef cuts.

“What sells the most is still filets, but people are much less conservative now about steak.

They want to experience Kobe, Wagyu and the bone-in cuts. Our 32-ounce bone-in Wagyu tomahawk steak is like a filet on steroids. The flavor becomes just that much more magnified because of the bone,” Steron says.

Not only has the steakhouse atmosphere and menu changed, but so have the traditional customers.

“When we started out, we had an older demographic but it’s getting younger and younger. One of the most exciting things for me is to see so many young people enjoying Shanahan’s. Some had first come in here with their parents and now they are dining here on their own,” he says.

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse delfriscos.com

40-OUNCE PORTERHOUSE FOR TWO Ruth’s Chris Steak House ruthschris.com

18-OUNCE BONE-IN NEW YORK STRIP Eddie V’s Prime Seafood eddiev.com

12-OUNCE BONE-IN FILET Ocean Prime ocean-prime.com

“Our 32-ounce bone-in Wagyu tomahawk steak is like a filet on steroids. The flavor becomes just that much more magnified because of the bone.”

— Marc Steron, Managing Partner, Shanahan’s Steakhouse

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16-OUNCE WAGYU RIBEYE Eddie Merlot’s Prime Aged Beef & Seafood eddiemerlots.com

16-OUNCE NEW YORK STRIP Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse flemingssteakhouse.com

22-OUNCE BONE-IN RIBEYE Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille perryssteakhouse.com

GLASSES UP TO RESPONSIBLE DRINKING. TULLAMORE D.E.W. IRISH WHISKEY, 40% ALC./VOL. (80 PROOF) ©2022 IMPORTED BY WILLIAM GRANT & SONS INC., NEW YORK, N.Y.

LOCAL FLAVORS

// get out

PHOTOS: LUCY BEAUGUARD, COURTESY PINDUSTRY

Games On PINDUSTRY immerses guests in 54,500 square feet of games, mixology, food, views and tunes

By John Lehndorff PINDUSTRY hides inside a nondescript building that looks like what it was designed for in the 1980s: cars, parts and service. Open the front door and you tumble down a rabbit hole into a wonderland of games, diversions and sheer fun.

and grandparents freak out and introduce their kids to the favorite games they grew up with,” says Shannon Silva, marketing director of Pindustry. The entertainment complex opened in Greenwood Village in 2021.

First up is a throwback arcade with twenty vintage pinball machines and retro video classics including Pong. “That’s the place where parents

The wide-open floor plan on two floors leads guests to billiards and ping-pong tables as well as spaces for darts, shuffleboard and foosball.

Besides traditional ten pin bowling, Pindustry’s 23 lanes offer duck pin bowling, a quirky regional variation involving smaller balls without holes and pins on ropes. “You still roll the ball down the alley but sometimes toddlers and big guys throw the ball instead so we hear a lot of loud thuds,” Silva says.

The most dramatic spot is the long Skydeck constructed on top of the building with perfect sunset views of the Rocky Mountain backdrop and eight cornhole “arenas” with stadium seating.

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“The Skydeck immediately became the most popular hang-out spot when we opened last summer. We wanted Pindustry to be a place where people could enjoy competitive games in one part and a bunch of girlfriends could relax with bruschetta and wine on another part of the roof,” she says.

One important thing to know about Pindustry is that there are no advance reservations for bowling or any of the games. “Everything is first come first served. When you get here you can put your name on a waiting list,” Silva says.

Besides, if there is a wait to get in on the action, you can order food and drinks to enjoy anywhere in the facility.

The menu devised for Pindustry is not your grandfather’s bowling alley fare of hot dogs and nachos with molten orange cheese. “We wanted to offer a more elevated experience,” she says.

The kitchen sources high quality ingredients like burrata imported from Rome and artisan bacon from Denver’s River Bear American Meats.

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LOCAL FLAVORS

// get out

An open, exhibition kitchen dishes serious Neapolitan pizzas baked and seared crispy in a high-temperature oven. Specialty pies range from The Don topped with crushed tomato sauce, meatballs, fresh basil and ricotta, provolone and Parmesan cheeses.

An experienced crew of mixologists craft impressive cocktails such as the Howling Chupacabra, a refreshing blend of blanco tequila, mezcal, ginger, fresh pineapple, lemon and seltzer.

On weekends Pindustry adds a music club element with local bands playing outside on the first floor, dog-friendly beer garden in the summer or inside during the colder months.

Folks drawn to Pindustry’s fun and games are also discovering a slew of new attractions in the neighborhood.

“The whole area is getting a big facelift with the opening of Grange Hall food hall and Shake Shack,” Silva says. WingWok, a restaurant which specializes in trendy Korean fried chicken, is set to open near Pindustry this year.

PINDUSTRY

Greenwood Village, 720.712.7467; thepindustry.com

PHOTOS: LUCY BEAUGUARD, COURTESY PINDUSTRY

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Artwork

Signage

Installation

We Listen. We Learn. We Create.

www.noyesartdesigns.com

303.332.8838

3601 S. Pennsylvania St, Englewood, CO, 80113

DWELLING WELL

// expert advice

PHOTO: SIDEKIX MEDIA ON UNSPLASH

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DWELLING WELL

// expert advice

Change Your Walls, Change Your Life SURROUNDING YOURSELF WITH ART BRINGS A NEW PERSPECTIVE

By Heather Shoning

ARTWORK EVOKES EMOTION. It can bring joy, make us cry, conjure a memory. Surrounding yourself with it is a form of well-being and brings a variety of benefits into your life and the lives of others. “Art has the power to inspire, challenge and enrich our lives,” says Krista Lauer, curatorial associate and Octopus Initiative (an art-lending program) administrator at MCA Denver. “It can transcend pure aesthetics and connect to something deep within ourselves.”

Here are some ways art can bring a new perspective to your home and your life.

DEMONSTRATE PERSONALITY When you choose art that speaks to you—even if you can’t describe why—it likely reflects something about your personality. “Think about how you respond to color or form, think about the emotion you feel when experiencing nature,” says Laura Phelps Rogers, artist, curator and creative director at fooLPRoof Contemporary Art in Denver’s RINO district. Buy what speaks to you, what you love. There will always be a place for it.

CONVERSATION STARTERS Lauer encourages residents to create a connection with local artists whose work they like by approaching them at a showing to ask about the work and gain a deeper understanding of it. “If an in-person meeting sounds a bit overwhelming, I suggest you start by following 33

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DWELLING WELL

PHOTO: WES HICKS ON UNSPLASH

// expert advice

them on social media. Many artists share insights on their feed, and you will begin to feel like you know them on a deeper level, which will lead to a deeper connection between you and the artist,” she says. Once you have a better understanding of the art or know more about the artist, you can share the stories with your guests who see the artwork.

BOOST YOUR OUTLOOK Even work that someone might consider dark or heavy, has the power to move someone else in a positive way. It’s all about how the piece makes you feel. Choose what lifts you up. “Showcasing extensions of our potential, connecting to things we love and that interest us are critical components of well-being,” says Phelps Rogers.

“Collecting should include imagery, color, textures and sounds that refresh us, inspire us, empower and push us.”

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS COMMUNITY Whether you learn about local artists through the Octopus Initiative or by diving in at a local gallery, when you choose works created by local artists, you not only support that artist, but PHOTO: JASON BRISCOE UNSPLASH

PHOTO: ROD LONG UNSPLASH

“Showcasing extensions of our potential, connecting to things we love and that interest us are critical components of well-being...”

— Laura Phelps Rogers, fooLPRoof Contemporary Art

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DWELLING WELL

// expert advice you support your local art community. These perspectives were the impetus for forming the Octopus Initiative, an MCA program that allows Denver residents the ability to borrow a work of art to hang in their homes for up to 10 months, free of charge.

MAKING YOUR FIRST SIGNIFICANT PURCHASE But what if you’re not sure how to add artwork to your home—what looks good together, is appropriately sized, and suits your taste and home decor? There are two easy ways to approach this: Sample artwork to discover what you love or seek the help of a professional curator. This works for adding just one piece to your home or creating an entire collection.

“I like to think that the act of placing a work of art in someone’s home for an extended period of time allows them to explore its meaning and impact in a way different from experiencing a work displayed in a museum or gallery,” Lauer says. The key is to live with artwork you love.

PHOTO: KAM IDRIS UNSPLASH

Phelps Rogers says, “Building a collection or working with a gallerist or curator to create a meaningful environment you are truly connected to can elevate your lifestyle and well-being.”

Octopus Initiative MCA Denver octopus.mcadenver.org

PHOTO: FROM THE HIP PHOTO, COURTESY MCA DENVER

PHOTO: COURTESY FOOLPROOF CONTEMPORARY ART

“I like to think that the act of placing a work of art in someone’s home ... allows them to explore its meaning and impact in a different way ...”

fooLPRoof Contemporary Art foolproofcontemporaryart.com

— Krista Lauer, Octopus Initiative, MCA Denver 36

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Aspen 970.925.8579

Crested Butte 970.349.5023

Denver 303.399.4564

Steamboat Springs 970.879.9222

Telluride 970.728.3359

Vail 970.949.5500

interior landscapes that delight the senses

thurstonkitchenandbath.com

From fantasy to reality, how Willis Wood and the creative team at RiNo Sign Works brought the immersive world of Meow Wolf Denver | Convergence Station to life.

Conf luence

By Kastle Waserman

PHOTO: COURTESY RINO SIGN WORKS

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of Dreams 39

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SINCE MEOW WOLF first opened in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 2016, it’s been an art world sensation.

Creating fully immersive universes by a collaboration of artists, they transport visitors into fantastical stories through interactive experiences.

When Willis Wood, co-owner of RiNo Sign Works in Lakewood, visited the Santa Fe location in 2017, little did he know he would soon be a part of a new endeavor.

“I heard Meow Wolf wanted to do a Denver experience. I loved the Santa Fe one so much, I thought it would be a really cool opportunity to work with them. So I geeked out and sent them an email inviting them to visit our shop,” he says enthusiastically.

His dream became a reality when Meow Wolf accepted his invitation and sent a team down, eventually leading to a design proposal.

Wood said Meow Wolf artists created designs for signage but

PHOTOS: COURTESY RINO SIGN WORKS

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didn’t know how to turn artistic drawings into actual signs. It was up to Wood’s team to make it real.

His industrial-design staff looked at the renderings, which of course, were in Meow Wolf’s adventurous style, and they were able to create a plan for how to build it, and what kind of lights and materials to use.

When they started the fabrication process, they encountered an unexpected challenge.

“Traditionally, we use a polycarbonate fabric for our signs, but we learned Meow Wolf is considered an amusement park, so they had to adhere to rigorous fire ratings,” says Wood. “We had to take the fabric and send it to a testing facility to get the Class A rating to get the city to give the OK.” Another surprise came when Meow Wolf wanted the signage to look aged and distressed because they were going in the fourth-floor C Street area. This is where the Meow Wolf experience starts and where visitors “crash land” into this other world. It’s meant to look like seedy backstreets. “Usually, our clients want something shiny

PHOTOS: COURTESY RINO SIGN WORKS

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PHOTO: COURTESY RINO SIGN WORKS

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and new!” says Wood. “But Meow Wolf wanted them rusted and banged up.”

He said his heart sank slightly when he saw their new signs “refinished” by the Meow Wolf team. “We delivered a very clean sign, then Meow Wolf dirtied it all up. On the one hand, we felt they’re destroying our brand new signs!” he exclaims. “But at the same time, we knew that was what we were getting into.”

RiNo Sign Works also did some problem solving when Meow Wolf initially requested a lot of neon signs. “Neon is great, but it’s really fragile because it’s made of glass, and it’s really temperamental.”

So RiNo Sign Works proposed a faux-neon, push-through design instead. “We take a sign face and cut where the neon would go and push polycarbonate through with a translucent vinyl on the back to produce a color. It’s great because it will never break or give them any trouble,” says Wood.

Along with the C Street signage, RiNo Sign Works also made signs for the first floor, some of the small rooms and the Convergence Station entry sign—86 signs in 45

february 2022 // AvidLifestyle

total, which took about a year to create and install. Wood said it was the longest project they’ve ever been a part of, and there were definitely moments when they wondered how they would get it done. “We knew working with Meow Wolf would be cool and weird, but I had no idea the extreme they wanted to push it,” he laughs.

Since Wood started the company with partner Brian Dudzinski in 2013, they’ve become known for signs that push the envelope, including the milk carton sign at Milk Market, The 3D jewel sign for Sarah O. Jewelry and the living wall sign for The Green Solution.

Wood said the Meow Wolf project solidified RiNo Sign Works’ reputation as a cutting-edge design team that isn’t afraid to go outside the box of the conventional sign world. “People can throw stuff at us and nothing scares us anymore.”

RINO SIGN WORKS 303.289.8547 rinosignworks.com MEOW WOLF DENVER | CONVERGENCE STATION tickets.meowwolf.com/denver

PHOTOS: COURTESY RINO SIGN WORKS

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// gift idea

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// gift idea

XOXO GIFTS THAT ARE BIG ON LOVE

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Pink heart bracelet Rose quartz is the stone of unconditional love, and this bracelet embodies that love with a pink enamel heart set with pavé diamonds. It’s a daily reminder to give and receive love.

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// gift idea PHOTO: COURTESY THE INVENTING ROOM

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A cozy cabin tucked away in Aspen’s snowy mountains, Cloud 9 harnesses all the charm of a Swiss chalet — only instead of the Alps, you’ll get picture-worthy views of Aspen’s Maroon Bells. Ride the snow cat here and dine on warm fondue, raclette, steak tartare, caviar and delectable daily specials. And of course the flaky strudel for dessert.

PHOTO: TOM TALLANT, COURTESY THE CHOCOLATE THERAPIST

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// expert advice

The Look of Love

PHOTO: KARELYS RUIZ ON UNSPLASH

By Maren Bartels

LOVE IS IN THE AIR this month, but instead of candy, cards and roses, we’re talking self-care, self-love and self-esteem. Yes, it’s an inside job but here’s the thing, it’s a two-way street. How you look and how you feel go hand-in-hand and the experts at the SkinMed Institute, Blo Cherry Hills and Floyd’s 99 Barbershop have advice on letting your love flow from the inside out!

Dr. Mona Sadeghpour, MD, FAAD, Board-Certified Dermatologist, Co-Founder SKINMED INSTITUTE 720.381.2600; skinmedinstitute.com

Patrice Gendelman, Owner BLO CHERRY HILLS 720.638.5296; blomedry.com “We’re in this confusing, anxiety-driven time so double-up on anything that makes you happy and relieves stress,” advises Blo Cherry Creek owner Patrice Gendelman. “It sounds simple, but a great blowout is an easy way to pamper yourself, enhance your look and improve your self-confidence.”

We’re all worthy of self-love and that starts with establishing a daily self-care routine. Don’t save something that brings you joy, instantly enhances your look and boosts your confidence for special occasions; it should be part of our daily routine. “Pamper yourself! It isn’t an indulgence but a wellness treatment that lasts way beyond the salon,” according to Gendelman.

PHOTO: JESSIE DEE DABROWSKI ON UNSPLASH

According to Dr. Mona (as she’s affectionally called), the key to loving your skin is to keep it simple and consistent. “Your daily skincare plays a huge role in how your skin looks, feels and eventually ages. It doesn’t have to be complicated—topical antioxidant and sunscreen in the morning and an agent to help repair damage and build new healthy skin at night.”

Additionally, the advancements in minimally invasive procedures like injectable products not only structurally mimic natural skin structures such as hyaluronic acid and bone, but also enhance and maintain the health and beauty of the skin, adds Dr. Mona. “Our understanding of the use of injectable wrinkle relaxers like Botox and Dysport have evolved to include placement and dosing to create a soft natural look, rather than a heavy frozen look.”

PHOTO: COURTESY FLOYD’S 99 BARBERSHOP

Additionally, topical antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea, resveratrol, niacinamide, and glutathione can help protect skin by soaking up free-radical damage from the environment including sun, pollution and chemicals. “Antioxidants should be the first thing applied to cleansed skin every morning to create an absorbent barrier sealing off skin from environmental damage. Sunscreen should be the last layer applied before walking out the door,” shares Dr. Mona. “For nights, I recommend using a topical that helps repair skin damage and aids in making new collagen and elastin. Retinoids are the most effective of the topical agents, helping to stimulate collagen and increase the rate skin turns over to diminish photodamage.

They’re also the first-line treatment for acne and are commonly and safely used in teenagers and kids. The earlier these agents are started the more damage is prevented.”

And if you’re a Colorado native, chances are you have sun damage and brown spots. Fractional laser resurfacing, such as Fraxel Dual or Clear and Brilliant lasers create columns of heat in the skin that lift years of sunspots and photodamage out of the skin. These in-office procedures take minutes to perform without prolonged recovery times. Dr. Mona believes “all of these advancements allow us to combat the aging process with grace and sensibility. It’s very empowering.”

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To make this part of your go-to self-care ritual, Gendelman advises booking appointments in advance. The blowout and head massage are a must for reducing stress and looking great while doing it. But even on the days you can’t book a blowout, Gendelman says the key to styling your locks is to “invest in a top-of-the-line blow dryer and styling tools. And wash your hair less often—it helps so much!”

Patrick Butler, Technical Director FLOYD’S 99 BARBERSHOP floydsbarbershop.com Men are typically the last to go to the doctor, let alone book time for self-care. But now is the perfect time to set new intentions. This might sound hippie-dippy, but in general men need to tap into their emotional well-being. Simple things like starting the day with a guided meditation, trying a new aftershave, setting reminders for saying a positive affirmation throughout the day or even splurging on a dapper sportscoat can all help flex your self-care muscles.

“We need to embrace change so start from the top,” says Patrick Butler, Technical Director at Floyd’s 99 Barbershop. “Don’t be afraid to ask your barber for their advice to enhance your assets.” But before they start snipping, make sure to share your styling routine so you get a look “you want instead of one you have to mess with throughout the day.”

Classic clipper cuts will always be a staple on the hairline, but men are embracing a little more length on top so the short and long blend together. Although Butler says this may change your styling routine slightly, as “you end up with a new look that can turn heads.” But no matter your style, even the most rugged of men need to take time for themselves. “We’re all under so much stress right now, so taking that extra step to take care of ourselves is paramount.”

a gift of love The gift of relaxation and self care is a gift of love. Send them a Copperfalls Gift Card this Valentines Day season!

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INFLUENCERS

// the game changer

PHOTO: JESSICA HUGHES

The Power to Paint JAMES HOLMES, A DENVER-BASED ABSTRACT ARTIST, shares his story of finding his passion through an unexpected experience

By Jessica Hughes

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// the game changer PHOTO: COURTESY JAMES HOLMES

In February of 2018, James was injured when the horse he had been riding kneed him in the back of the head. He drove himself to the hospital and learned that his neck was broken and he was at high risk of paralysis. He decided to have emergency spinal fusion surgery.

After a few days in the hospital and 12 weeks of

Both his wife and mother encouraged him to try painting, so he did. Before he knew it he had created 30 or so paintings. His spontaneous style of painting led to abstract works with vibrant colors and textures, all with stories to tell.

“It has all been about abstraction. I had no interest in painting horses or landscapes, or anything else,” says James. He goes on to say, his “motive for painting was healing.” And through his desire to heal, the flow of creating abstract paintings began. Through his process of painting, “from the inside out,” as James describes it, he healed, both physically and mentally.

Others began to take notice, including a local photographer who was relentless in getting him to showcase his work at a local art show at the Deep Space Gallery in Parker. After his exhibition there he sold a few pieces and won an award, which helped to solidify as well as validate his role as an artist.

James is a thoughtful and emotional being who lets his feelings guide him through what he paints. Whatever emotions he has while painting, guide him to what will show up on the canvas. He wants to create art that makes one feel and invites the viewer along in the journey with him.

James Holmes Studio & Gallery 126 West 12th Avenue, Denver 303.523.9503; jamesholmesstudio.com PHOTO: COURTESY JAMES HOLMES

ALWAYS A LOVER OF THE ARTS and deeply involved in the Denver arts community, serving as a trustee of the Denver Art Museum, Holmes was never an artist himself until a recent horse accident left him with plenty of time to pick up a new talent.

recovery time at home ahead of him, James found himself needing something to do while he was healing.

Fast forward a few years and James now operates his own gallery, selling his pieces as well as commissioned works, such as the fourpanel piece at the Northridge Recreation Center in Highlands Ranch he created in remembrance of the STEM school shooting.

His painting practice includes a combination of color and texture as a visual language. With the goal of his paintings connecting with people on a deeper level. His passion grew quickly, he created nearly 50 paintings that first year.

PHOTO: JESSICA HUGHES

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INFLUENCERS

// the game changer

Transforming Tragedies Into Triumphs

NANCY FITZGERALD founder of THE BUTTERFLY FOUNDATION and her mission to provide a helping hand to families in need

By Jessica Hughes

PHOTO: TOM VALDEZPHOTO.COM, COURTESY OF THE BUTTERFLY FOUNDATION

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INFLUENCERS

// the game changer

Founder, Nancy Fitzgerald, a former news anchor and associate producer at CNN, began her career’s journey covering other people’s stories, both tragedies and triumphs. Over the years, these stories inspired her passion for helping those who need an extra leg to stand on during times of hardship.

Fitzgerald began her mission with the goal of fundraising for one family a year on her own and eventually created the non-profit organization that exists today. Over the years, The Butterfly Foundation has helped cancer survivors, widows, children and families who have been struck with life’s misfortune by aiding in the rebuilding of their lives.

Currently, the foundation’s goal is to help one family per quarter, or four families a year. With future plans and additional fundraising to help up to eight families per year.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF THE BUTTERFLY FOUNDATION

JUST AS A CATERPILLAR transforms into a butterfly, the Colorado Butterfly Foundation transforms families out of tragedy. For nearly 13 years, the Butterfly Foundation has been a resource of support for those who have suffered immense tragedy, illness, loss, or other hardship by offering them a hand up.

In 2014, while building the foundation, Nancy tragically lost her husband Patrick in a biking accident that left her stunned and in a similar situation as many of the families she had helped over the years. Through this unimaginable loss, Nancy persisted to expand and grow her work with the foundation.

A story close to Fitzgerald’s heart is that of 19-year-old Monica Torres, she and her eight siblings were left to fend for themselves after their mom died in 2020 of COVID-19. They were struggling to pay a $1,600 water bill when a counselor at Monica’s school reached out on the family’s behalf to the Butterfly Foundation for help. In conjunction with Denver 7, the foundation helped raise over $60,000 for the Torres family to aid them in getting back on their feet.

This and many other stories are just some of the ways the foundation has helped people bridge the gap between tragedy and moving forward.

The foundation is now working to assist those affected by the Marshall Fire that ravaged the neighborhoods in and around Louisville and Superior on December 30, 2021.

The foundation is planning an event in midJanuary at Mad Greens in Louisville to provide free dinner, gift cards and resources for victims and heroes affected by the fire as well as support the owners of the restaurant whose home was destroyed in the disaster.

The foundation raises money through charity events such as Putts for Patrick, a charity golf

tournament in the name of Nancy’s late husband. In addition to fundraising events, they plan to continue with programming similar to the Empower a Teacher Contest they ran in the fall, where people could nominate teachers for a chance to win $1,000 to assist the winner in the upcoming semester.

Another focus of the foundation is community, including their partnership with the South Metro Fire Department. Recognizing a need for mental health assistance for first responders, the partnership was formed to create a mental health program for local firefighters. This partnership is uniquely special to Fitzgerald as the South Metro Fire Department were the first responders to arrive on the scene of her husband’s accident in 2014.

For the future, “we have big dreams to make it bigger and better,” says Fitzgerald. With plans to expand the foundation to include a residential treatment center for girls who suffer from mental health issues including suicide, the center will serve as an interim place for girls to stay while they seek help.

“It was divine for me to take over the business after my husband’s passing,” Nancy said. “The Foundation gave me a callus for what was coming. It prepared me for my husband’s death.

And it has been the greatest honor and privilege of my life to help these families.”

HOW TO HELP Make a donation: coloradobutterflyfoundation.org/donate/ Know someone who needs help? coloradobutterflyfoundation.org/apply/ The Butterfly Foundation is accepting donations of gift cards for their LOUISVILLE EVENT to help support those affected by the Marshall Fire.

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit The Buttefly Foundation’s Facebook page, @thebutterfly.help 60

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// traveler’s choice

Nature Informs Art

By Heather Shoning

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAMS offer creatives a new perspective

PHOTOS: COURTESY ANDERSON RANCH ARTS CENTER

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WAYFARERS

// traveler’s choice PHOTO: COURTESY ANDERSON RANCH ARTS CENTER

Cara Despain working on her carbon project while attending the artists-in-residence program at Anderson Ranch Arts Center in 2020.

But Miami-based artist Cara Despain set her sights on the high country to connect with nature that inspires all her work, and she was in for a surprise when she arrived at Anderson Ranch Arts Center just outside of Aspen in 2020.

The 5-acre campus was once a working sheep ranch. Today 14 historic buildings have been renovated—many of which are studio spaces with glass garage doors providing a connection to the outdoors for working artists. “There are many ways that the environment informs the artist experience at Anderson Ranch,” says Katherine Roberts, director of marketing and communications. “Many artists will articulate that they are experiencing something entirely different than what their day-to-day life is in terms of the landscape. They can’t help but be inspired by that. It often informs their work— the colors, the textures.”

Despain works in a variety of disciplines to address issues related to climate change and frontierism and their impacts on ecosystems.

“Climate change and environmental impacts— you can see them in a pronounced way in just my short life,” she says. About a year prior to her stay at Anderson Ranch, Despain began working on her carbon project. She collected burnt debris from wildfires in California to create “carbon paintings” that represent climate

PHOTOS: COURTESY CARA DESPAIN

WALKING IN NATURE is relaxing. It inspires joy and reduces stress. And when you factor in the beauty of the Colorado landscape, just think what it can do for creativity among artists. There are dozens of artists-in-residence programs across a variety of disciplines throughout the state—and many in the Denver metro.

In addition to building on her carbon project, Cara Despain’s stay at the Anderson Ranch allowed her to learn new technology to create a geo-accurate, low-relief sculpture of the Nevada Test Site, where nuclear bomb testing took place from 1951 to 1992.

change and sustained forest mismanagement.

When she arrived in Aspen, she discovered the nearby burn scar of the 12,000-acre Lake Christine Fire that devastated Basalt and Carbondale just two years prior. Working with the Anderson Ranch staff, she was able to visit the area, collect debris and create more pieces for her project during her residency. She then returned in 2021 to collect debris and create more work from the Troublesome Fire. The beauty of nature calls her, the devastation she witnesses ignites her artwork.

Anderson Ranch Arts Center andersonranch.org Cara Despain says her carbon works are not intended to be aesthetic. Instead, they represent “spent/wrecked vistas and places—rather than pristine wilderness.” She created this carbon painting with debris from the 2018 Lake Christine Fire in Eagle County.

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february 2022 // AvidLifestyle

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