The Art Center of Estes Park was established in 1987 and offers an extensive collection of fine art including painting, photography, jewelry, ceramics, glass, fiber, and woodworking. In addition, we present opportunities for education in the visual arts, and act as an advocate and partner for community arts development.
​
This was the vision of several local artists, many of whom are still participating members. We are dedicated to education and excellence in the visual arts, and is operated through artist and community volunteers, membership, sales, and donations. Our mission is to provide a facility that supports and promotes regional artists; to present opportunities for education in the visual arts, and to act as an advocate and partner for community arts development.
The Center now represents local and regional artists from across the Rocky Mountain area. We feature the high-quality artwork of 40 local Colorado artists in a broad selection of media. Whether you’re searching for a large piece of fine art or photography to enhance your home, or the perfect gift of jewelry, fiber, pottery, or a notecard for a friend, we have it.
We feature a new exhibit approximately every six weeks, opened by a public reception featuring refreshments and entertainment. We invite you to come and view these fine artists' work and to shop for additions to your home or business collections.
​
about us
Member Artist
Mary Benke
Mary combines the creative use of texture, color, and design to evoke emotion and a strong sense of imagery in her paintings. Her expressive landscapes, appealing animal portraits, and intriguing city scenes combine her keen eye for design and love of travel and nature. After working as a magazine editor and graphic designer for over 20 years, Mary rediscovered her first love—fine art—in 2003. Since then, her award-winning watercolor, pastel, oil, and mixed media paintings have been juried into numerous regional, national, and international art exhibitions. She was a selected artist for Loveland, Colorado’s City with HeART Project, through which she designed and painted a 5-foot fiberglass heart, “Lover’s Leap,” in collaboration with a Loveland bronze sculptor. Its permanent installation is across from Lake Loveland. Mary is a signature member of the Pastel Society of Colorado and the Colorado Watercolor Society, and is active on the board of directors at the Art Center of Estes Park, serving as Marketing Committee chair and social media director. Her work can be seen at the Art Center of Estes Park; Madison & Main Gallery, Greeley; and Fine Art America.com.
Website: www.marybenke.com
Email: marybenke27@gmail.com
