Art “Capt. Barefoot” Goodtimes explores the balance between technology and human connection in Telluride, a concept championed by futurist John Naisbitt. He advocates that to create a future enriched by technology, we must also embrace interpersonal relationships. This philosophy resonates with the ideas of Dolores LaChapelle, who emphasizes the importance of establishing sacred places and community bonds through activities like drumming and sharing circles. Capt. B reflects on the necessity of integrating traditional ecological knowledge from Indigenous cultures into contemporary practices, stressing the importance of understanding our colonial history while seeking a collective path forward.
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As part of a creative resurgence in Colorado, poetry festivals are blossoming. The state's artistic profile was elevated following the Colorado Creative Industry’s Summit in Trinidad, leading to events like the Four Corners Poetry Festival, which featured notable poets such as Colorado Poet Laureate Crisosto Apache and Diné Poet Laureate Jake Skeets. In Crestone, the revived Poem Fest, led by Darci Meyers, showcased various poets, including Jessica Helen Lopez and Lawton Eddy, enhancing local cultural engagement through workshops and performances.
The upcoming Book Cliffs Poetry Festival in Grand Junction will celebrate new laureates and honors in the poetry community, including presenting the posthumous Karen Chamberlain Award to Andrea Gibson. The festival will also include workshops and local open mic sessions, providing a platform for diverse voices in poetry.
Telluride’s independent bookstore, Between the Covers, is highlighted by Casias's memoir, "Red Woman: My Southern Ute Journey from Poverty to Wall Street." This work chronicles her journey and the broader narrative of resilience among Indigenous tribes.
The Telluride Mushroom Festival marked its 47th event, with participants discussing various aspects of mycology. Notable speakers included Aurelija Plüké and Giuliana Furci, who brought attention to the connection between fungi and human cultures, while awards were given to several contributors in the field. Memorials commemorated local figures in the wild foods community, reflecting the festival's deep roots in both ecological and cultural discussions.
Capt. B also shares poetic reflections inspired by his surroundings, celebrating the majesty of the Colorado landscape and its influence on art and culture.