By Dian Law

I'm back. Yes, it's Dian all over again. After a five-month vacation, I'm back at the computer letting all you Mancosites know what's going on in the local (and not so local) art and culture scene. Missed you all.

Drawing at the center

Starting on Sept. 11, Life Drawing sessions will be available at the upstairs space at the Cortez Cultural Center. Bring your paper and drawing tools, and $5 to pay for the model. Time I: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Participants must be over 18.

Olio - art wine food

Currently exhibiting at Olio. Tow photographers - Barbara Grist and Mark Montgomery. This is the best of both worlds - great food and wine and great art to enjoy while you're munching and sipping. Current show will run through November 1st.

Artfest & street fair, 2014 edition

Artists, musicians and other performers will be on hand for this annual event on Balloon Festival weekend. Starting at 9 a.m. and running until 4 p.m. on Grand Avenue, which will be blocked off from Main to Mesa, it'll be party, party, party! This whole event is coordinated by Marianne Griffin, our stalwart Visitor Center administrator. If you want some more info or to volunteer, give Marianne a buzz at 533-7434.

On the bluff

On Oct. 16-19, Bluff, Utah, will be hosting its 10th annuals Arts Festival. Check out their website for the schedule of events. There will be hand-on workshops, a quilt show, native drumming, a film festival and much, more. I've been to this event, and it does have something for everyone. Not bad for a short drive from Mancos.

Mancos town gallery

The current show is "Art Takes Flight" - inspired by the Balloon Fest. This show will run through the end of October, with a week's hiatus. Then the annual Mask Show will go up. For info on either of these shows, contact Jan Wright (882-3130) or Marilyn Kroeker (533-7363) Also, Marilyn's great new musical ensemble, Sweetwater Station is getting rave reviews from recent outings around the county. More on the show dates, next column.

Big cats, cool cat

Up at the Anasazi Heritage Center, the featured show tells you all about the mountain lion. Fascinating info and great depictions, things I bet you didn't know about these gorgeous creatures. Also at the Heritage Center, there are paintings and photographs from recent artist in residence. A small show, but very inspirational.

Speaking of artists in residence

Did you know that there are 40 national parks - from Acadia National Park in Maine to Zion National Park in Utah - that offer these spots to artists every year? Each park has its own application process and timeline so visit www.nps.gov/getinvolved/artist-in-residence.htm for further information. Sessions usually run two to four weeks. From those who have experienced one of these residencies, I hear only good and inspiring things.

Yummy

And for those of you who appreciate the art of fine food there's the Telluride Barbeque Festival takes place on Oct. 19-21. Go get some delicious food and enjoy the leaves turning in the high country. I think it's the prettiest drive around these parts.

All contributions to the column are appreciated. Email them to me at [email protected] See ya soon.