DesotoExplorer.com

"Art Spaces."

The name of our column in some ways represents what the De Soto Arts Council will be doing this year. We are looking at physical spaces to display and eventually perform art and spaces to hold classes and meetings.

In another sense we want to expand our space in the community. The council continues to have its membership with the De Soto Chamber and we are affiliated with the Kansas Rural Communities Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization. Our main community event, the Sunflower Artfest works with the De Soto Rotary Club, local 4-H and boy scout groups, and is supported by the City of De Soto and many local businesses, and many volunteers from our community. The Reflection Program at Starside Elementary will have several of our members assist with judging. The Barn at Kill Creek Farm Association asked for our assistance with a logo design, and we are incorporating involvement with our talented students in our local high school.

Our board members this year are:

Rose Burgweger, Chairman Diana Zwhalen, Vice Chairman Jim Walker, Treasurer Dick Stine, Secretary

We were excited to have several new members at our first meeting held recently. The De Soto Arts Council meets monthly at various locations and is open to artists and anyone interested in the arts. Contact Rose Burgweger, Chairman for meeting information at rmbgraphics@earthlink.net

This month we feature the work of local artist Kathy Horniman.
She does beautiful, unique copper trees made out of various types of wire. Visit her web site at www.coppertreesbykathy.com.

Her work is at three locations in Lawrence: Phoenix House: 800 block on Massachusetts St.
1109 Gallery: 1109 Massachusetts St. Blue Dot Salon: 15 E. 7th

You can enjoy numerous art exhibits on Final Fridays in the evening in Lawrence. This event takes place the last Friday of every month and centers on locations on Massachusetts St., but other locations are included within a two block area.

Continue to check this column for news on our individual artists and shows.

By Carrie Dvorak, De Soto Arts Council Past President