Since 2014, the Durango Arts Center has nurtured a partnership with Mancos-based education center, nature preserve and bed and breakfast Willowtail Springs by funding weeklong residencies for local artists. Over the past four years, DAC has supported 17 artists/groups, each unique in their creative objectives and career stage, yet equally impacted by the tranquil setting and positive support afforded by Willowtail’s founders and directors, Peggy and Lee Cloy. DAC intentionally created this partnership to broaden our engagement with regional artists, who otherwise may not have an opportunity to advance a concept or an entire body of work outside the demands of regular life. An artist residency is that respite where new ideas take hold and creativity flourishes, and the artists are not only thrilled to receive this opportunity, they come back greatly enriched and renewed in their work.

This exhibit will comprise the work of artists who have experienced a residency at Willowtail, including local artists funded by DAC, as well as out-of-area artists who have found great value in sojourn to Mancos. Willowtail Springs is intended to highlight the partnership between two nonprofit organizations, DAC and Willowtail, and also make apparent the creative impact that a local residency has on our rural, yet highly creative community.