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OPINION
Colorado Springs is privy to two wonderful showcases—Van Briggle Pottery, and Michael Garman Galleries. If you haven’t spent any time in either of these places, take the time to check them out. Van Briggle Pottery was established in 1899, and is still one of the oldest active art potteries in the United States. Founded by Artus Van Briggle, Van Briggle Pottery has been considered one of the great American art potteries for over a century. In 1904 Artus died from tuberculosis at the age of 35.After his death, his wife Anne continued the work they began together. The result was the creation of one of America ‘s premier art potteries. Examples of Van Briggle pottery can be seen in permanent collections of the Metropolitan Museum in New York, the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C., The British Museum in London, and at the Louvre in Paris (http://www.vanbriggle.com/). Michael Garman was eight years old when he began sculpting little characters. “My dad was a very fine artist, he was the one who showed me how to make little pipe cleaner men.” It didn’t take any time for Garman to begin fashioning background for his characters. This breathed life into them. Garman’s eye for the character of each individual he sculpts has captured those Americans who have shaped our country. From Dallas to South America, Garman traveled and made his miniatures. After spending some time in San Francisco he moved to Philadelphia. Finally in 1971 he set up housekeeping in Colorado Springs close to Memorial Hospital. Garman took a small studio above a drugstore in Manitou Springs to live and create his magical sculptures (http://www.michaelgarman.com/). One of Garman’s proudest creations is Magic Town. Magic Town is a 1/6 scale miniaturized city neighborhood. It includes 18 different buildings with a variety of different scenes which change before your eyes. It is a fascinating work that instills the imagination of both young and old alike. Tours of the Magic City are every day. Our area is so rich in many ways. And if it’s the Arts that interest you, spend a day in Manitou Springs. It is home to dozens of artisans and galleries. You won’t be disappointed. Bonnie Nelson is a freelance writer living in Fountain, CO. If you have any comments or questions email her at waltbon@comcast.net.
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