Art & Artists in Redstone

An Artist Colony in the Mountains

The pull of American artists to Redstone began in the early 1900’s with The New York Times naming Redstone “The Ruby of the Rockies” for it’s stunning surroundings and grand buildings.

Since the 1930s Redstone has had a reputation as an artist colony; beginning with nationally acclaimed artist, Frank Mechau, who passed away in 1946, to Jack Roberts, Eric Johnson, Janusz Obst and the list goes on. In 1995 John Buchanan, publisher of the Redstone Reporter (now defunct), and his wife, LeeSanne, decided it was time to spread the word about the wealth of artistic talent tucked away in the mountains. With the help of the Redstone Inn, the Redstone Community Association and individual businesses they organized the first Redstone Art Exhibition and Sale in February of 1996. This has paved the way for the Redstone Art Foundation’s annual Labor Day Art Show.

The Redstone Art Foundation is a non-profit organization that is run by volunteers from Redstone and surrounding communities to encourage and promote the arts in the Crystal River Valley. For more information on the Redstone Art Foundation, visit their website.

Today, art in Redstone is ever present. You’ll notice art in the front yards and on the many historic homes in Redstone. See if you can spy classic composer portraits painted on homes along the boulevard. The Redstone Art Gallery is a wonderful place to browse and purchase artwork from local and regional artists. Or stop into the Crystal River Craft Shop at the Redstone Cliffs Lodge for fine crafts and handmade goods.