The Journal
Mesa Verde National Park’s artist in-residence program kicks off with Cortez artist Rosie Carter, whose residency runs April 15-28.
Public programs are planned at Mesa Verde and a Mancos School of the West workshop, according to a news release from Mesa Verde spokeswoman Cristy Brown.
During her residency, Carter plans to create an illustrated map telling the story of Mesa Verde’s geographic and cultural locations.
The free park program, “Hike and Sketch,” will be held April 27 from 1-3 p.m. Meet at the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum lobby, then Carter will lead visitors on a hike to view some of the places that inspired her map. Participants will discuss process and work on sketches along the way. Materials will be provided.The Cortez program, “Narrative Mapmaking – Telling a Visual Story,” will be held April 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Meet at Carter’s studio at Home & Range, 2409 E. Empire St. in Cortez. Inspired by historic maps that incorporate technical accuracy and imaginative illustration, students will explore the process of telling a story through narrative maps. Carter will guide students through the creative process of developing a story idea and using mixed media, and telling that story in map form. There is a fee for this workshop. Register online through Mancos School of the West, at www.schoolofthewest.org. A materials fee will be collected at the class.
Carter, a self-taught artist, grew up in a family of artists and entrepreneurs. She works primarily in pen and ink over colorful painted washes, and she draws inspiration from being outside and taking in the natural surroundings. “I look forward to exploring the park, gathering inspiration and sketching ideas, learning about the park’s exceptional resources,” Carter said in the news release.
Mesa Verde National Park’s artist-in-residence program provides professional artists the opportunity to become part of a long-established tradition of artists creating art in national parks. The program is managed for the park by the nonprofit Mesa Verde Museum Association. Learn more at https://www.nps.gov/meve/getinvolved/artists_in_residence.htm and www.mesaverde.org.