Wednesday’s Noontime ‘Artbreaks’ in San Miguel County Commissioner Offices

TELLURIDE – As the recession grinds on, artists across the United States struggle to express themselves despite weak economic conditions, dwindling public funding, and constant reminders that, unlike all other professions, their livelihood is not considered an essential human “need.”

Here in San Miguel County, the Board of Commissioners hopes to strengthen the connection between local artists and the public, while highlighting the importance of their contributions, with a series of “ArtsBreaks” presentations to be held over the lunch hour during commissioner meetings.

Each 10 to 15 minute ArtsBreak Presentation will showcase the work of one local artist; San Miguel County Poet Laureate Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer kicked off the program Wednesday, Jan. 20, with a 12 p.m. presentation.

The presentations are intended to engage the public, while encouraging greater attendance at BOCC meetings, notes San Miguel BOCC Chair Art Goodtimes.

“Given the hard times that have particularly affected the arts and non-profits in town and the County’s limited ability to help with money, the County has decided to offer a new venue for local artists,” Goodtimes said. “At noon during our regular scheduled meetings this year, we will try to feature an artist for a performance or presentation of work. We’re hoping this showcase will raise the profile of some of the amazing artists in our communities.”

In the case of artists who have received grant monies from San Miguel County in the past, the ArtsBreak presentations will allow them to demonstrate how they have used the funding, Goodtimes added.

“We’ll follow the ArtsBreak with public discussion,” he said, “and by having more people come, we may generate more public participation.”

Artists interested in participating are encouraged to call Goodtimes at 970/327-4767.