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​FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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​Heritage Fine Arts Guild Presents: Abstract Colorado—Acrylic Painting Workshop for Beginners with Christian Dore
LITTLETON, COLORADO – May 17, 2025:
The Heritage Fine Arts Guild of Arapahoe County invites artists of all experience levels to join "Abstract Colorado: Painting for Beginners" with acclaimed artist Christian Dore. This inspiring, in-person acrylic painting workshop will be held from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1701 W Caley Ave, Littleton, CO.
In this workshop, participants will be guided through every stage of creating an abstract acrylic portrait of Colorado, blending natural elements with personal artistic expression. Christian Dore’s hands-on instruction will explore color, texture, and composition, offering a welcoming space for beginners and those new to acrylic painting.
Cost:
  • Members: $50
  • Non-Members: $100
Registration and supply details are available at heritage-guild.com.
Not a member yet?
This is the perfect time to join! Heritage Fine Arts Guild members enjoy discounted workshop fees, access to exclusive events, juried exhibition opportunities, and a vibrant community of supportive artists. Learn more and become a member today through our website.
About the Instructor:
Christian Dore, a fine artist and former BBC graphic designer, draws inspiration from Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes. Known for his colorful, textural abstracts, Dore captures the region’s warmth, spirit, and dynamic beauty in his work. His paintings combine expressive color, layered surfaces, and intuitive creativity, inviting viewers into a rich visual and emotional experience. Learn more at christiandore.com.
About Heritage Fine Arts Guild:
Since 1974, Heritage Fine Arts Guild has served the South Denver Metro community by supporting artists at all levels of skill. The Guild offers monthly demonstrations, workshops, exhibitions, and opportunities to grow creatively in a welcoming community.
Grant Support:
The Heritage Fine Arts Guild is proudly funded in part by the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) and a Littleton Arts & Culture Grant.

HERITAGE FINE ARTS GUILD PRESENTS: ACRYLIC PAINTING COLLAGE WORKSHOP WITH CHRISTA MACFARLANE
Date: March 15, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Ascension Lutheran Church, 1701 W Caley Ave, Littleton, CO
Cost: $50 for Heritage Fine Arts Guild members, $100 for non-members
The Heritage Fine Arts Guild invites artists of all skill levels to an engaging, hands-on workshop: Acrylic Painting Collage with Christa MacFarlane. Participants will experiment with a variety of acrylic application techniques while integrating collage elements to create dynamic and unexpected compositions. This workshop is designed to showcase the versatility of acrylics and inspire creative expression.
Workshop Highlights:
  • Learn acrylic layering, texturing, and mixed-media collage techniques.
  • Work with a collaged composition to add depth and surprise to your painting.
  • Receive expert guidance from Christa MacFarlane, a professional artist and experienced instructor.
Instructor Biography – Christa MacFarlaneChrista MacFarlane holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Interior Design from the University of Kansas. With over 35 years of experience in various artistic disciplines—including interior design, graphic arts, and teaching—Christa has developed a passion for acrylic painting. She is a professional artist known for her bold, botanical-inspired works, which have been showcased in galleries and healthcare spaces. Currently, she is represented by RA-Modern Gallery in Crested Butte, Colorado.
Registration & Materials:Participants should bring their own supplies, including acrylic paints, brushes, collage materials, and a support board for their work. A full supply list is available on the Heritage Fine Arts Guild website.
Register now at www.heritage-guild.com. Spaces are limited!
This event is proudly supported by the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) and the Littleton Arts and Culture Grant, fostering creativity and community engagement through the arts.
For more information, visit Workshops/Events page

HERITAGE FINE ARTS GUILD PRESENTS: "PAINT YOUR PET IN PASTEL" WORKSHOP WITH LINDA FRENCH
Littleton, CO – February 15, 2025 – The Heritage Fine Arts Guild invites pet lovers and artists of all experience levels to "Paint Your Pet in Pastel," a hands-on workshop with Linda French. The workshop will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1701 W. Caley Ave., Littleton, CO 80120.
Participants will learn essential pastel techniques to capture their pet’s unique personality, blending and layering to create lifelike textures. The class will cover the use of pastels, pencils, and blenders, with detailed instruction on sketching and painting facial features, body structures, and fur. Each artist will leave with a cherished pastel portrait of their pet, created on an 11 x 14 suede mat board provided by the instructor.
Workshop fees are $50 for Heritage Fine Arts Guild members and $100 for non-members. Non-members are encouraged to join the Guild to enjoy discounted workshop fees for the remainder of the season.
Participants may bring their own pastels or purchase a set for $10 during class. All other materials, including pastel pencils, blenders, pens, and mat boards, will be provided.
This event is proudly supported by funding from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) and the Littleton Arts and Culture Grant, which help foster artistic growth and accessibility in the community.
About the ArtistLinda French is a seasoned pastel artist with over 16 years of experience teaching pastel techniques to artists. After a 32-year career teaching special needs students, Linda shifted her focus to creating lifelike pet portraits and teaching others to do the same. Her award-winning works, known for their realism and emotional depth, have garnered recognition nationwide.
Linda is also celebrated for her commissioned pet portraits, including painting retired K-9s for the Loveland Police Department. Her work can be viewed at www.lincolngallery.com/linda-french and www.lindafrenchart.com.
Don’t miss this opportunity to honor your pet and enhance your pastel skills!
For more information and to register, visit our Workshops Page


HERITAGE FINE ARTS GUILD PRESENTS: "WINTER LANDSCAPE" WORKSHOP WITH BEHNAZ AHMADIAN

Littleton, CO – January 18, 2025 – The Heritage Fine Arts Guild invites art enthusiasts of all levels to "Winter Landscape," a captivating mixed media workshop led by artist Behnaz Ahmadian. The workshop will take place on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1701 W. Caley Ave., Littleton, CO 80120.
Participants will explore the dynamic interplay of paint, paper, and mixed media, with a special focus on the expressive possibilities of painted papers. Under Behnaz Ahmadian's expert guidance, attendees will create a stunning seasonal landscape while discovering new techniques in collage and mixed media.

Workshop fees are $50 for Heritage Fine Arts Guild members and $100 for non-members. Non-members are encouraged to join the Guild to enjoy discounted workshop fees for the remainder of the season.

This event is made possible in part through generous funding from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) and the Littleton Arts and Culture Grant, which help support the Guild’s mission of fostering artistic growth and accessibility within the community.

About the ArtistBehnaz Ahmadian is a Colorado-based artist and art instructor who specializes in acrylic painting and mixed media. Raised in a family of creatives, Behnaz's fascination with patterns and vibrant colors informs her unique artistic style. Although she initially pursued a career in biology and interior design, her passion for art led her to a full-time painting career.
Behnaz’s artistic journey is deeply inspired by her mother, a fashion designer who introduced her to the world of art and fabrics. Each of Behnaz’s works pays tribute to the love, joy, and creativity her mother instilled in her, weaving together vivid colors, intricate patterns, and heartfelt meaning.

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn from a seasoned artist whose work reflects both technical skill and emotional depth.

​Don’t miss this chance to engage in a day of artistic exploration and seasonal inspiration!
Heritage Fine Arts Guild Hosts Holiday Card-Making Event and Free Demo to Serve Our Community and Spread Joy to Isolated Seniors

Littleton, CO – For the third consecutive year, the Heritage Fine Arts Guild will hold its holiday card-making event on December 7, 2024, inviting the community to create handmade winter celebration cards for seniors and isolated individuals through Project Angel Card and Brighten A Day. Originally initiated by Guild member Cheryl Huff, this tradition continues to foster a spirit of care and creativity. Held at Ascension Lutheran Church in Littleton, CO, the event runs from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with pizza included in the $10 fee for members and non-members. Attendees often bring a treat to share and additional art supplies to make the session festive and collaborative.

“Our goal is to let seniors know someone remembers them,” Cheryl said, reflecting on the event’s mission to bring cheer to those who may feel isolated. “I want the elderly, who are often isolated and somewhat forgotten, to know someone in the bigger world was remembering them.” Last year, nearly 90 cards were sent to senior centers, each one carrying positive affirmations and well wishes.

Pre-Event Demonstration by Artist Elisabeth Strunk: Free and Open to All

To help participants prepare, the Guild will host a free, open-to-the-public card-making demonstration by local artist and educator Elisabeth Strunk on November 13 at 7:00 PM. Known for her joyful approach to art, Elisabeth will showcase creative techniques and ideas for the upcoming event.

Demonstration Details:
Date: November 13, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Ascension Lutheran Church, 1701 W Caley Ave, Littleton, CO
Cost: Free and open to the public


Card-Making Event Details:
Date: December 7, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Ascension Lutheran Church, 1701 W Caley Ave, Littleton, CO

Cost: $10 (includes pizza)

Supplies: Card blanks and envelopes provided; attendees are encouraged to bring art supplies and a treat to share,

“It's a great feeling at the end of the morning to line up all the different cards we’ve made and to know that we’re sending a little bit of our art to someone for the holidays,” shared Carolyn Moershel, Guild board member. Attendees are encouraged to bring a friend and share in the joy of creating together!

Registration: Sign up at heritage-guild.com under the Workshop page.
Supported by the Littleton Arts and Culture Grant and SCFD, these events offer a heartfelt way for the community to come together, connect, and create cards that will bring warmth and joy to someone’s season.

Heritage Fine Arts Guild Announces November 2024 Workshop: "Figure-Drawing/Painting with Michael Dowling"
Littleton, CO – The Heritage Fine Arts Guild is thrilled to present its November 2024 workshop, "Figure-Drawing/Painting," led by renowned artist Michael Dowling. This full-day workshop will take place on Saturday, November 16th, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1701 W Caley Ave, Littleton.
Participants will learn to draw the human figure from a live model in the afternoon session, guided by Michael Dowling's classical yet contemporary approach. The workshop focuses on fundamental figure-drawing techniques such as anatomy, observation, gesture, contour, and tonal modeling. Artists of all levels are welcome to explore their creativity with their preferred sketching tools and paints. Michael will also provide supplies for those wanting to experiment with oil paints.
Michael Dowling is an internationally collected artist, represented across the US and Canada. His work blends classical influences with hypermodern subjects, reflecting techniques he honed while studying in Italy. His art is held in numerous private and public collections in the US and Europe.
Workshop Details:
  • Date: November 16th, 2024
  • Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Location: Ascension Lutheran Church, 1701 W Caley Ave, Littleton
  • Cost: Members: $50 | Non-Members: $100
For more information or to register, visit the Heritage Fine Arts Guild website.
About the Instructor:
Michael Dowling, a Colorado-based artist, combines classical techniques with hypermodern themes in his drawings and paintings. His work is widely exhibited and collected, spanning galleries and private collections across the US, Canada, and Europe. Learn more about his work at mjdowlingstudio.com.
This is a unique opportunity to learn figure-drawing techniques from an internationally recognized artist—reserve your spot today!

Call for Entries and Upcoming Exhibition: "This is Colorado" 2024
Littleton, Colorado – June 5, 2024 – The Heritage Fine Arts Guild, in collaboration with Arapahoe Community College, is excited to announce the annual "This is Colorado" juried art exhibit, inviting all Colorado artists aged 18 and older to participate. This prestigious event has been a staple of the Colorado art scene since 1974, showcasing the diverse talents of artists from across the state.
Event Details:
  • Call for Entries Begins: July 1, 2024
  • Entries Accepted: July 29 – August 2, 2024
  • Notification of Acceptances: August 6, 2024
  • Art Drop Off: August 19, 2024, 9:00am – 11:00am
  • Exhibition Dates: August 22, 2024 – September 27, 2024
  • Artist Reception and Awards Ceremony: August 22, 2024, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
  • Art Pick Up: September 27, 2024, 9:00am – 10:00am
  • Location:
    Colorado Gallery of the Arts
    Arapahoe Community College
    5900 S. Santa Fe Drive
    Littleton, CO 80160
Gallery Hours:
  • Mon-Fri: 9:00am – 5:00pm
  • Thur: 9:00am – 7:00pm
  • Sat: August 24, 10:00am – 3:00pm
About the Exhibition: "This is Colorado" is Heritage Fine Arts Guild's annual statewide juried art exhibit, hosted by Arapahoe Community College. Open to all Colorado artists, this exhibition offers a unique platform to showcase a diverse range of artworks, from representational to abstract, across various media. The 2024 exhibition promises to continue this tradition, highlighting the exceptional talent and creativity within the Colorado art community.
About the Juror: Christa MacFarlane: We are honored to have Christa MacFarlane as the juror for this year's exhibition. Christa's artistic journey is deeply rooted in her connection to nature, with her works often reflecting the human-like qualities of wild botanicals. Her acrylic botanical paintings and feminine silhouettes convey profound messages and stories that resonate with viewers. Christa’s expertise and discerning eye will ensure a high-quality and inspiring exhibition. For more about Christa MacFarlane, visit her website at https://www.christamacfarlane.com.
Meet the Artist and Award Ceremony: Join us for the Artist Reception and Awards Ceremony on August 22, 2024, from 5:00pm – 7:00pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the artists, enjoy light refreshments, and listen to commentary from juror Christa MacFarlane as she presents the awards.
About Heritage Fine Arts Guild and SCFD: Heritage Fine Arts Guild is proud to participate in the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), which supports arts and culture organizations throughout the Denver metropolitan area. The Guild is also a proud recipient of a City of Littleton Arts and Culture Grant, which makes sharing art at the Colorado Gallery of the Arts even more exciting. Through exhibitions, workshops, and community events, the guild fosters creativity and artistic excellence, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists throughout the Denver metro area to thrive.
Join Us: Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art and support our local artists. Visit the Colorado Gallery of the Arts at Arapahoe Community College to experience the best of Colorado’s artistic talent.
For further information, submission guidelines, and inquiries, please visit the Heritage Fine Arts Guild website at https://www.heritage-guild.com and for online submissions visit https://www.arapahoe.edu/2024hfag.

Join us in celebrating the extraordinary talent of Colorado artists at the "This is Colorado" 2024 exhibition. Let's come together to appreciate art, creativity, and community.

Explore the Best of Heritage Fine Arts Guild: Members Show at Bemis Library
Littleton, Colorado – May 16, 2024 – The Heritage Fine Arts Guild is thrilled to announce "The Best of Heritage Fine Arts Guild" members show, showcasing the exceptional talents of our guild members. This exclusive exhibition offers a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts to engage with the vibrant creative community of the guild and discover a diverse range of artworks.
Event Details:
  • Exhibition Dates: June 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024
  • Location: Bemis Littleton Public Library
    Downstairs Art Gallery
    6014 S. Datura Street
    Littleton, CO 80120
    Phone: 303-795-3961
    Hours: Mon-Thurs: 9am-8pm, Fri/Sat: 9am-5pm, Sun: 1-5pm
The exhibition will feature captivating artworks curated from the talented members of the Heritage Fine Arts Guild, ranging from representational to abstract and in a variety of media. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and creativity of our local artists' work.
Meet the Artist and Award Ceremony: Join us for a special Meet the Artist event and Award Ceremony on Sunday, June 2, from 2-4pm at Bemis Library in the Downstairs Art Gallery. Meet the artists behind the showcased works, gain insight into their creative process, and celebrate their achievements.

About Our Juror, Victoria Kwasinski: We are honored to have Victoria Kwasinski as our juror for this exhibition. With a BFA from Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design and over thirty years of experience as a professional artist, Victoria brings a wealth of expertise to the selection process. She has held various roles including corporate graphic artist, freelance illustrator, gallery owner, fine artist, and art instructor.
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In choosing work for juried shows, Victoria looks for art demonstrating sound art principles including good color, value, composition, design, and technique. Awards are chosen on the basis of these principles, as well as those works that express the artist’s unique voice, create a sense of wonder, and invite the viewer to be involved in the work.

About Heritage Fine Arts Guild: Heritage Fine Arts Guild is proud to participate in the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), which supports arts and culture organizations throughout the Denver metropolitan area. The Guild is also a proud recipient of a City of Littleton Arts and Culture Grant, which makes sharing art at Bemis Library even more exciting. Through exhibitions, workshops, and community events, the guild fosters creativity and artistic excellence, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists throughout the Denver metro area to thrive.
Join Us: Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art and support our local artists. Visit the Downstairs Art Gallery at Bemis Library throughout June to experience the best of Heritage Fine Arts Guild.

Heritage Fine Arts Guild Presents "Entering Art Shows – A Step-by-Step Guide to Success" with Trish Sangelo

Heritage Fine Arts Guild is thrilled to announce a special presentation by Trish Sangelo, Director of the ACC Colorado Gallery of the Arts, titled "Entering Art Shows – A Step-by-Step Guide to Success." This crash course will give you an insider view of art show entries and steps for successful submissions.

Date & Time: May 8, 7 pm (following Heritage Guild general business meeting at 6:00pm) Location: Ascension Lutheran Church, 1701 W. Caley Ave., Littleton, CO 80120

This informative session, part of the Heritage Fine Arts Guild's monthly meeting, is open to both members and non-members. Trish Sangelo will provide valuable insights and practical advice on successfully navigating the process of entering art shows, from digital entry to increasing your chances of winning awards. This is a great opportunity to learn how to enter art shows, and perhaps enter the Guild's upcoming "This is Colorado" art show in August! Non-members are welcome at this free and informative session, which is also a great way to learn more about Heritage Fine Arts Guild!

Attendees will learn:
  • Tips for photographing artwork and generating image files suitable for digital entry.
  • Understanding the prospectus and ensuring eligibility of submitted pieces.
  • Selecting paintings strategically for entry, focusing on cohesion and professionalism.
  • Step-by-step demonstration of the entry process using the ACC show submission page.
  • Preparation of artwork for hanging, including matting, framing, and suitable hanging methods.
  • Etiquette for artwork delivery, retrieval, and participation in show-related activities.

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your confidence and success in entering art shows. Whether you're a seasoned artist or new to the art show scene, Trish Sangelo's expert guidance will provide valuable insights. Join us for this enriching and fun crash course!
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Heritage Fine Arts Presents "Exciting Mixed Media Art Workshop" with Jo Ann Nelson

Heritage Fine Arts is thrilled to announce its May 2024 workshop, "From Substrate to Storytelling: Steps to Creating Exciting Mixed Media Art with Jo Ann Nelson." Scheduled for May 18, 2024, from 10 am to 3 pm, this workshop will be held at Ascension Lutheran Church in the Fellowship Hall, located at 1701 W Caley Ave, Littleton.

Jo Ann Nelson, a seasoned Mixed Media and Painting artist, will guide participants through the creation of one (or two) captivating mixed media pieces. The workshop will cover the entire process—from preparing the substrate to adding texture, working on composition, and applying paint. Participants will explore mixed media techniques combining acrylic paint with various materials provided by Jo Ann.

Date and Time: May 18, 2024 10 am - 3 pm
Location: Ascension Lutheran Church, Fellowship Hall 1701 W Caley Ave, Littleton
Cost: Members - $60 Non-Members - $100

Jo Ann Nelson's artistic journey began on a farm in Kansas, and she holds a B.S. and an M.A. in Consumer and Family Art Education. With a passion for the beauty of shape and color, she conducts workshops for adults and children, serving as a juror for various art shows. Jo Ann's work, whether representational or abstract, aims to capture emotions and memories, creating a bridge between artwork and viewer.

Participants are encouraged to visit www.heritage-guild.com/workshops for more information and to secure their spot in this exciting mixed media art workshop. Join today to enjoy lower member prices on all our workshops!