A Feast for the Eyes
Exploring Local Artwork Adorning the Walls of PARC Aspen
PARC Aspen is more than just a local restaurant, we are a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates and promotes local artists. We feature a variety of art mediums, including our creative food & beverages as well as paintings, carvings, and murals from local artists.
Let’s take a moment to learn more about our featured artists: Michael Kinsley, Lauren Poppie, and Dean Bowlby, and the artistic journey that each, in their own unique way, came to feature the various landscapes of our beautiful valley - the muse for their phenomenal artwork.
Breathtaking Colorado Landscapes in Oil by Michael Kinsley
One of the artists featured at PARC Aspen is Michael Kinsley, a Colorado native and self-taught painter. Kinsley's paintings are characterized by his bold use of color and texture, and his works often depict the natural world around him, such as mountains and bodies of water. Kinsley's paintings are a reflection of his deep love and respect for the beauty of Colorado's landscapes.
The piece adorning the wall in our Modern Locals Bar is the perfect representation of Kinsley’s skill. This whimsical portrayal of one of Colorado’s most incredible views combines lighting and shadows in such a way that you almost have to remind yourself that you are not looking out the window.
In addition to the 12-foot mural in our space, you can see Michaels' paintings displayed in Aspen’s Winderiver Gallery or view a more extensive collection on his website. You will also be able to support him this August in the Aspen Chapels show titled Art for the Pass featuring works dedicated to Independence Pass.
Dreamy Paintings of Napa Valley & Butterfly Mine By Dean Bowlby
Another artist showcased at PARC Aspen is Dean Bowlby, a sculptor, and painter who has lived and worked in Aspen for over 40 years. Bowlby's sculptures are a fusion of traditional and contemporary techniques, and his painting is predominantly inspired by his environment paying homage to all the beautiful scenes he has encountered in his extensive travels.
Much like the other artists featured on the walls of PARC Aspen, Dean has always had an interest in art - but he never thought he would be lucky enough to call it a career. He spent a good chunk of his childhood drawing on anything he could find, essentially perfecting his skill. After being recognized and encouraged by a teacher to pursue this talent, Dean continued to just dabble in art while periodically being introduced to local artists that would continue to encourage and inspire his progression as an artist.
Dean’s paintings can be spotted on a few walls in PARC Aspen. The most notable being his depiction of the sprawling Napa Valley showcased within the 620 room. Both pieces feature a different angle of the vineyards much like the extensive wine collection housed in the room. Additionally, Bowlby was commissioned to recreate a photograph that is near and dear to our owner, Maryanne Sefton’s heart. Hanging on one of the prominent walls in our contemporary finer dining room is a depiction of the Butterfly Mine just outside Telluride. This image was captured by Maryanne just before she lost her footing and broke her wrist [just two months before our grand opening].
Awe Inspiring Wood Reliefs By Lauren Poppie
In addition to established artists like Kinsley and Bowlby, PARC Aspen also supports emerging artists. One such artist is Lauren Kaye Poppie, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Living in the mountains has proven to be a massive source of inspiration for her artwork; her pieces/designs center around grand landscapes, and different animals that all make up the beautiful nature experienced in her daily life.
Her work graces the entry wall behind our hostess stand setting the scene for an intimate and unparalleled dining experience. The wood carving is a scene from a spring day in our gorgeous town of Aspen, CO.
To see more of Poppie’s work, you can check out her partnership with Telluride-based ski company, Wagner Skies. visit her website, follow her on Instagram @laurenkayeprints or reach out to her directly to request a custom piece of work at laurenkayeprints@gmail.com
In a world where art is often commodified and commercialized, we at PARC Aspen strive to stand out as a bastion of creativity and community. By showcasing the work of local artists like Michael Kinsley, Dean Bowlby, and Lauren Kaye Poppie, we are hoping to foster a thriving artistic ecosystem in Aspen and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, a visit to PARC Aspen is sure to inspire and delight.
Reserve your table today to feast your eyes upon these fantastic works of art and experience our spring menu before the off-season closure on Saturday, May 6th.
