By Lynne Marsala Basche; photo courtesy of Lucia McConnell

Inspiration is everywhere you look.  For Castle Rock artist Cindy Welch, inspiration can be found in the form of a mailbox, colorful outdoor umbrellas and even business signs.  Welch’s latest commission, “The Barn,” which is being unveiled next month, represents her passion for capturing moments in time.

Welch, a 25-year Castle Rock resident and Colorado native developed a fascination with art at a young age and pursued her artistic interests at the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design.  After graduating, Welch worked at a Denver design studio as well as with local home builders creating architectural renderings in pen and ink and watercolor.

Raising three daughters left Welch little time for pursuing art outside of work, but in 2007, she started to paint seriously with watercolor.  “I love the exciting surprises of watercolor,” said Welch.  “You don’t have total control over watercolor.  When you put different colors together, it’s always a surprise and always a little different, depending on the paper, how much water is on the brush, and the amount of color.”

With a love of downtown Castle Rock and interests in nature, historic buildings and preservation, Welch’s work captures the spirit and nostalgic feel that is so prevalent in our community.  Welch is never without her camera and sees paintings everywhere she looks.  Vibrant colors and familiar settings lend themselves to watercolors that are both warm and inviting whether Welch is capturing an iconic structure or a cluster of flowers.

One of Welch’s paintings, “Castle Rock Feed & Supply Co.,” prompted The Barn’s property owner Catherine Haigh to commission Welch to paint that building, which is one of Castle Rock’s oldest intact structures.  “It is such a pleasure and an honor to have the magical life that is “The Barn” captured by such a talented artist as Cindy Welch.  The merchants at The Barn look forward to sharing her delightful creation with the public for decades to come!” said Haigh.

The official unveiling of “The Barn” will take place at The Barn on September 11 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and the public is invited to attend this free event.  Welch’s entire collection will be displayed as part of Colorado Artfest at The Barn on September 12.  Also, Welch’s works can be found throughout downtown Castle Rock at places such as Augustine Grill, Castle Cafe, and of course The Barn.

Welch is a celebrated artist and recognized by The Greater Castle Rock Art Guild, The Colorado Watercolor Society, and The National Arts Program.  Welch will also be published in the 2016 edition of “Splash,” which features the best of watercolor artists from across the country.

For more info about Cindy Welch or to see her collection, visit www.castlerockartist.com.