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Meet the Artists

Since 2008, hundreds of curated butterfly and dragonfly sculptures have been created by local artists and auctioned at our annual celebration to bidders throughout the United States.

This treasured tradition continues with the introduction of new artists for 2024!

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Full-size sculptures are on exhibit at the Pioneers Museum from September 6th to September 26th!

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Petite sculptures are on exhibit at the Ent Center for the Arts from September 6th to September 26th!

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View Online.

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2024 Artists

Michele L. M. Arthur
Item # 315

Michele is an eclectic person: an educator, artist, and small business owner inspired by nature and the world around them. For the past 30 years, she has taught various subjects to all age levels, but now primarily guide students in the arts. When not teaching, she runs a small business selling handcrafted tie-dyes, painted items, and jewelry. In her spare time, she loves gardening, hiking, and baking.

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This year, she painted a garden dragonfly titled “Oh Beautiful America.” Pikes Peak inspires her daily with its beauty, whether through hiking, traveling, or just looking out the window. She loves hiking at Garden of the Gods because both Pikes Peak and the Garden are relaxing. People often forget their everyday beauty.

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She has participated as an artist for the past two years with Wildflowers in Flight, A Good Day to Go Fishing, and two petite butterflies. She is currently the liaison between CSSD 11 and the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs.

Hope L. AuBuchon
Item #300 and #207

Hope is a self-taught artist who loves to bring smiles to people's faces. Growing up as a military brat, she had the opportunity to see much of the world from a young age. Constantly trying new things, she strives to grow both as a person and an artist.

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She painted a garden butterfly titled “It's all Monet,” inspired by Claude Monet and his love of nature. Additionally, she created a petite butterfly titled “Bunch-a-Balloons,” inspired by the Labor Day balloons at Memorial Park. Dedicated to helping the community, this will be her eighth year with Wings of Change.

Zeno AuBuchon
Item #308

Zeno is a seasonal Archaeology Field Tech who loves reading and drawing. He has worked with Wings of Change a few times under its old title, Flight, and enjoyed the experience. He designed a garden butterfly titled “A Few Classics,” inspired by the works of Jules Verne and Robert Louis Stevenson. Each side features scenes from two of each author's books. He is dedicated to supporting his community.

Rebekah Black
Item #213

Rebekah Black is a self-taught artist who enjoys sculpture, colored pencil, and painting. She graduated from Colorado State University-Pueblo with a bachelor's in applied mathematics and French. She continued her STEM education with master’s level classes in molecular biology, microbiology, and organic chemistry, completing research for a NASA-funded project on life in extreme environments.

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Rebekah has taught reading and math at James Madison Elementary School in District 11, art in District 49 elementary schools, and worked for the Colorado Department of Higher Education’s GEARUP Program at Mitchell High School, helping low-income students succeed in postsecondary education.

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Her petite butterfly, “Moments of Wonder,” illustrates two awe-inspiring moments: sea turtles swimming overhead, acting as guardians of coral reefs. Rebekah has been involved with Flight, now Wings of Change, for nine years, creating four large butterflies, eight petite butterflies, and two dragonflies. She believes in nurturing both analytical and creative sides to solve world problems and supports Wings of Change for its role in fostering arts and sciences in students.

Robin Brown
Item #304

Even as a teenager, Robin was interested in arts and crafts. Over the years, she has pursued embroidery, sewing, stained glass, beadwork, and home décor. Her journey into painting began several years ago, and although time has been limited, she looks forward to improving her skills. Her craft projects are often gifts for family and friends, but she has also contributed a zebra painting and beaded jewelry to a fundraiser for mission work in Costa Rica.

Her garden butterfly, “Serengeti,” is inspired by a love of animals. As an animal lover,  she couldn't imagine designing a butterfly without incorporating animals. Whether seen in pictures or real life, animals fascinate her. She is always curious about what animals are thinking, as their faces hold so much expression. The shapes, sizes, colors, and fur patterns of animals bring Robin feelings of peace and joy.

Leigh Blackburn
Item #302

Leigh is a repeat artist for Rotary’s Wings of Change, having created sculptures in both 2011 and 2013. She admires the worthy cause and heartfelt efforts of the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs' fundraising events and wants to contribute meaningful art.

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Her garden butterfly, “Dragon-fly: Chinese Year of the Dragon 2024,” is inspired by the concept of transitioning a butterfly into a dragonfly. The design features representations of the Chinese “Year of the Dragon 2024” on the upper wings and Koi fish on the lower wings. Both hold spiritual meanings, symbolizing good fortune among other things. Leigh hopes for “Good Fortune” for the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs in their heartfelt fundraising endeavors, as depicted in Chinese characters on the dragon and Koi fish.

Denise Castillo
Item #305

Denise hails from Phoenix, Arizona, and brings a lifelong passion for exploring the natural world and finding joy in everyday moments to Manitou Springs. Inspired by the beauty and intricacy of crystals, Denise's artwork aims to showcase the beauty and harmony that surrounds us daily.

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She has painted a garden butterfly titled “The Sun Is Shining” to remind people of the energy, power, and vitality symbolized by the sun. Denise believes in giving back to her community and has previously painted butterflies in 2021 and 2022. Her art not only reflects her appreciation for nature but also aims to uplift and inspire viewers with its positive message of sunshine and vitality.

Marilyn LeVan Chambon
Item #226 and #227

Marilyn is a repeat artist who has designed sculptures in 2021, 2022, and 2023. While she works as a licensed professional counselor in private practice, Marilyn has found a creative outlet through watercolor painting. Each painting, like life itself, presents opportunities for growth with its surprises and challenges, offering lessons about life along the way.

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She has painted two petite butterflies: “Winging It” symbolizes her experiences as a counselor, witnessing remarkable transformations from darkness to new life, akin to a butterfly's journey. “Wings of Freedom” reflects the idea that true flight often requires letting go of what binds us through life’s challenges. This process may take time, but the freedom it brings rewards the effort with the ability to thrive. Marilyn’s art not only expresses her professional insights but also celebrates the resilience and growth inherent in personal journeys.

Jill Clark
Item #311 and #206

Jill has participated as an artist in Rotary’s Wings of Change, formerly Flight, for four years. With 50 years of experience in various mediums, she sees this Rotary fundraiser as a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community and share her art.

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She painted a garden dragonfly titled “Dragonfly Dreams” and a petite butterfly called “Bohemian Wings.” Her inspiration is to create stunning art pieces that capture attention yet harmonize with nature. Jill’s work reflects her commitment to artistic expression and her desire to contribute positively to local initiatives like Wings of Change, combining creativity with community support.

Joan D Dacus
Item #303 and #212

Art is a true passion for Joan, expressed through mediums like bronzes, stone and wood carvings, masks, gourds, paintings, and glass mosaics. Creating a bronze trophy for UCCS and CSU Pueblo has been a highlight. Her goal is to evoke happiness and joy in viewers, encouraging them to recognize their boundless potential. Originally from Colorado Springs, she now resides in Canon City, CO, enjoying piano, music, nature exploration, and time with loved ones.

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Joan's garden butterfly, “Nature's Song,” reflects her love for music and piano playing. Music, a universal language, inspires her deeply. “Mind Bender,” her petite dragonfly, challenges the mind in unique ways.

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She’s been a Wings of Change artist for 5 years, creating 8 butterflies (2016 Messenger, 2017 Sunset Silhouette and Razzle Dazzle, 2019 Sunny Day and Fly Free, 2022 Hello Doily and New Vibrations, 2023 My Generation). Contributing to the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs Service Fund supports the community and promotes children’s involvement in arts and sciences.

Lorraine Danzo
Item #306, #210 and #222

Lorraine, a resident of Colorado Springs, holds an art degree from Pratt Institute of Art in New York. Her artwork, featuring animals, aspen, flowers, and mountains, celebrates textures and colors. She has been represented by galleries in New York, New Jersey, New Mexico (Taos and Santa Fe), Arizona (Sedona), and currently shows at Gallery 45 Degree in Old Colorado City.

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In 2024, Lorraine has created three sculptures: a garden butterfly titled “All a Flutter” and two petite butterflies named “Sunflower Celebration” and “Just Winging It.” Her butterflies celebrate the delicate wings capable of soaring and dipping, delighting viewers with their heavenly patterns and colors. Lorraine's art captures the wonder and beauty found in nature, showcasing her skill in portraying movement and vibrant life in her sculptures.

Hedy DuCharme
Item #301

Painting is a passion for Hedy. Her favorite art period is Impressionism, known for its loose brushwork and emphasis on capturing one's "impression" of a subject with varied colors and textures. Inspired by her years as a docent at the Fine Arts Center at Colorado College and travels across Europe, she resumed painting regularly. Hedy holds a BFA from Michigan State and began showcasing her work in Colorado Springs art shows 15 years ago, including venues like Cottonwood Center for the Arts, Academy Art and Frame, Commonwheel Co-op, and others.

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For 5 years, Hedy has been involved in Rotary’s Wings of Change (formerly Flight). She painted a garden butterfly titled “Fantasy Garden,” inspired by her passion for gardening and love of flowers. The vibrant colors and variety of annual and perennial plants inspire her, reflecting in her art with bright and cheerful hues.

Tejae Floyde
Item #312

Tejae is a Colorado artist who expresses her passion for life through painting and sculpting.  Her intention is to connect emotionally with the viewer through her art, evoking feelings of wonder and joy.  Her home base is in the picturesque town of Canon City, where she is inspired by the natural landscape, surrounded by mountains and an abundance of wildlife.  She enjoys portrait painting and has adorned her art studio with colorful, inspiring murals with florals, butterflies and women's faces.  Her small decoratively sculpted encased hearts fit in the palm of your hand and have been featured in many books and magazines.  Tejae is a full time artist and plans to offer replicas of her original art on her website, tejaesart.com.

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The inspiration for Tejae's garden butterfly "Meadow Muse" is nature's simple beauty with its colorful array of florals and butterflies is the ultimate artistic display and will always inspire her.  

Melissa Getz
Item #217

Melissa Getz was born and raised in rural Ohio, next to her grandfather’s farm, which continues to influence much of her work today. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in studio arts from Ohio University. Melissa is drawn to the tactile nature of three-dimensional bronze, mixed media, and found objects. Her artwork often features creatures and figures with a narrative quality, ranging from quirky playfulness to dark humor.

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Melissa has exhibited her work throughout Colorado and across the US. She currently resides in Colorado Springs, where she finds inspiration for new pieces outdoors.

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Her petite butterfly, “Shimmer Skimmer,” draws inspiration from previous butterfly designs and the educational mission of the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs, pushing her creative boundaries further.

Madylyn Gordon
Item #310

Madylyn Gordon has always had a passion for art, alongside her deep love for horses. Originally from St. Louis, she developed a fondness for digital art and taught horseback riding to people of all ages. Upon moving to Colorado in 2019, Madylyn became an art teacher, sharing her creativity with students and exploring the mountains with her horses, reflecting her adventurous spirit.

Her garden butterfly, “Untamed Wonder,” celebrates the nomadic cowgirl lifestyle she cherishes and pays homage to the horses that accompany her on memorable journeys. Inspired by a colleague's butterfly and moved by the Wings of Change movement, Madylyn aimed to leave her mark as an artist in Colorado Springs with her creation. Her butterfly represents a blend of artistic expression and admiration for the natural beauty and freedom found in her beloved horses and the landscapes she explores.

Mary Gorman
Item #309 and #223

A Colorado native, born in Canon City and raised in Pueblo, Mary has called Colorado Springs home since 1973. With a rewarding 33-year career in Federal Civil Service serving the US Air Force and Army, retirement has allowed her to pursue her passions for art and world travel. Since 2011, she has been a member of Gallery 113, primarily working with silk dye on silk fabric in her studio and watercolors with Garden Artists and Plein Air Painters of Colorado. She is a staunch advocate for education and the arts, participating in community events like painting petite butterflies annually since 2020 and a large dragonfly.

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This year, Mary has created a garden butterfly titled “Tapestry,” inspired by bold gold, teal, and red hues resembling stitches on tapestry. Additionally, her petite butterfly “Sunrise” draws inspiration from the Sunset Moth, featuring whites, yellows, greens, blues, a hint of purple, and dramatic irregular black shapes.

C. E. Gould
Item #224

C. E. Gould is a longtime Colorado artist who took an interest in art from an early age and who has a passion for drawing, painting and creating.  The inspiration for her petite butterfly "Sunshine" comes from the magnificent beauty of the Two-tailed Swallowtail butterflies that can be seen throughout Colorado.  Participating in Wings of Change provides an opportunity to bring awareness to the importance of creative development in Colorado Springs' schools.

Al B Johnson 
Item # 327, #313, #214
and #211

Al B is a local abstract artist with a studio at the Sluice in Old Colorado City and is a Resident Artist at Platte Collections Gallery in Knob Hill. He has been involved with Rotary’s Wings of Change (formerly Flight) for many years, initially drawn to support the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs’ efforts in providing STEAM grants to District 11 schools. Known for his colorful and creative butterflies, Al B has garnered a following, making him a natural choice for creating the Rotary Raffle Butterfly in recent years. His expertise has been instrumental in guiding fellow artists in the Wings of Change program, offering insights on effective design representation.

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In 2024, Al B created the raffle butterflyChouka,” meaning “butterfly flower” in Japanese. Additionally, he has contributed four other pieces: the garden dragonfly “Big Blue,” inspired by a real dragonfly; the garden butterfly “Buttercup”; the petite butterfly “Personal Monarch”; and the petite dragonfly “Little Red.”

Rebekah Lamm
Item #314 and #219

As a self-taught artist residing on the front range of Pikes Peak, Rebekah finds inspiration in hyper-realism and enjoys sharing art in various forms to inspire others. Having completed four butterflies for Rotary fundraisers in the past, she now lives on a farm with her husband and four children.

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Rebekah's garden butterfly, “Damsel,” is inspired by a previous petite butterfly design, now recreated on a larger scale to showcase the intricate and delicate details reminiscent of a topaz stone. Additionally, her petite butterfly, “Star Gazer,” draws inspiration from childhood experiences of stargazing in the countryside, marveling at the Milky Way and twinkling stars from the back of a truck.

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Despite an education gap in childhood, Rebekah is passionate about supporting fundraisers like this to enrich children’s education and foster appreciation for arts across generations.

Nancy Neale Martin
Item #320

It has been an honor for Nancy to paint butterflies for the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs for thirteen years, spanning from its inception as Butterflies & Friends to Flight and now Wings of Change. Creating art to empower community projects has been a fulfilling use of her creativity.

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Nancy's garden butterfly, “Aura Nimbus,” draws inspiration from the daily "golden hour" — that magical moment at sunrise or sunset. She  aims to capture this enchanting light in butterfly form, ensuring it brings joy throughout the day.

Cornelia Mitchell
Item #208

Cornelia has pursued art and photography classes at Pikes Peak State College and regularly attends an informal artist group. An amateur photographer, she has exhibited paintings at the art Gallery at Cacao Chemistry and the Golden Lotus Foundation Asian Heritage Center, while her photography has been showcased at East Library (PPLD).

 

Cornelia's art group has been participating in this event since its inception, having previously created two butterflies: the 2021 "Great Purple Emperor" and the 2022 "European Peacock."

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Having visited South Korea twice to see her son and his family stationed there, Cornelia drew inspiration for her petite dragonfly, "Butterfly Dragonfly," from a species found throughout East Asia known locally as Nabi Jamjari in Korea.

Stephanie Moon
Item #317

Stephanie has been living and painting in Colorado since 2009. Originally from a small farm town in Michigan, Stephanie developed a deep love for nature during trips to the lakeshore and her grandma’s cottage in northern Michigan. Her landscapes capture the ever-evolving vibrancy of nature, employing bold colors and concentrated mark-making. "My paintings aim to capture the immense beauty and wonder of our natural world."

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Outside her studio, Stephanie enjoys exploring trails with her dog and husband, or teaching others to express their creativity. Her garden butterfly, “Night and Day,” tells stories of the outdoors through visual art. It embodies Colorado's essence with sunrises, mountains, streams, lush valleys, and the Milky Way visible from our dark skies communities—depicting the idyllic Colorado imagined in our minds.

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Stephanie believes in enhancing access to arts and innovative ideas for young people, emphasizing community support and resources that foster collective growth and improvement.

Kelly Noffsinger
Item #220

Kelly is a woman navigating life's changes with resilience. Art serves as her anchor during challenging times. Her petite butterfly, “Storms and Rainbows,” narrates the journey of storms casting darkness over our lives, yet promising the beauty of rainbows coexisting with the storm's turmoil. Like the skies, she believes humans can hold immense grief and joy simultaneously. As storms pass, they leave behind quiet and peace. The swirls in her artwork symbolize life's constant movement and unexpected changes, which, though sometimes unwelcome, bring opportunities for growth when embraced.

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For the past few years, she has been involved with Rotary’s Wings of Change, previously Flight, enjoying creating public outdoor art.

Nicholas Olson
Item #318

Nicholas specializes in flow art using unconventional surfaces and alternative mediums, he has painted a garden butterfly titled “Mariposa Flow.”

 

Inspired by the harmonious blend of science and aesthetic beauty in nature and the arts, his work reflects a unique approach to creativity. He envisions applying his skills to unconventional and practical surfaces, enriching public spaces around town. Contributing to this project brings Nicholas immense satisfaction, knowing he has played a part in enhancing the community through art.

Georgia Padilla
Item #316, #221 and #225

Georgia, a Colorado native, is a self-taught mixed media artist whose journey began as a young girl coping with the challenges of a heart disease. Art quickly became her therapeutic outlet, aiding in navigating trauma and health issues throughout her life. Beyond her personal creations, she crafts custom pieces and usable art gifts for Maker's Markets, blending creativity with practicality.

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Her garden butterfly, “Atman,” and petite dragonfly, “Summertide,” draw inspiration from her reconnection with indigenous heritage and her family's beadwork. Another creation, “The Garden,” reflects her love for spring and blooming flowers. Participating in Wings of Change since 2022, she appreciates its community impact and support for District 11 schools. Recently returning to Colorado Springs from Denver, where her daughter attends school, Georgia finds joy in contributing her artistic talents to this meaningful cause.

Kim Polomka
Item #209

Kim has been involved as an artist with Rotary’s Wings of Change, formerly Flight, since 2008. He created a petite butterfly titled “Flight of the Patriot,” inspired by a 21’ x 76’ mural he painted for the American Legion Post 12 in Wickenburg, Arizona, in November 2023. The experience renewed his respect for the flag and its symbolism.

The Pour Painter
Item #323 and #218

The Pour Painter represents professional artistry supported by friends and family while navigating the challenges of chronic illness: autoimmune disorders, depression, anxiety, arthritis, insomnia, and surgeries. They have created 5 sculptures of various sizes and styles for Flight, now Wings of Change, over the years, and are enthusiastic to return and contribute to the community once more. Each piece is an abstract exploration of color inspired by unique experiences, reminding us of the ephemeral nature of every moment. This marks their fourth year participating in the event.

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Their garden dragonfly, "Space: The Sky is Not Black," and petite butterfly, "Spaaaace: Glitter in the Sky," draw inspiration from celestial events dancing across the sky this year. Living in Colorado allows them to appreciate the darkness of the sky, revealing the true colors and wonders above, including Pikes Peak, The Garden of the Gods, solar and lunar eclipses, the Tsuchinshan-Atlas Comet, and more. Enjoy their fascination with the stars above, as they continue to shine brightly.

Linda Sagastume
Item #321

As an instructor at Bemis School of Art for 13 years, dedicated to supporting the arts in Colorado Springs, this is Linda's hometown. Her work has been featured multiple times in Somerset Studio magazines, focusing primarily on acrylics and mixed media. She finds joy in nurturing artists of all ages, encouraging them to trust their creative intuition.

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Her garden butterfly, "The Secret Garden," draws inspiration from the classic book of the same name. Symbolizing life's metaphor, it reflects the intrinsic need for care among people and living things. It portrays a story of hope and friendship, where neglected spaces bloom with the tender touch of flowers, rejuvenating spirits.

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Linda's involvement with Wings of Change stems from a passion for beautifying outdoor spaces. She first painted "Georgia's Wings" in 2015, celebrating O'Keeffe's year at the Fine Arts Center, which Margaret Sabin, CEO of Penrose Hospital, purchased for their atrium garden. The honor inspired her to create another butterfly in 2023, continuing the theme. "The Secret Garden" emerged as a perfect new direction for 2024, aligning beautifully with the event's evolution.

Sanctuary Studios Artists
Item #326

Lori Vafiades, Elizabeth Lutz, and Sarah Joy are a trio of seasoned illustrators and educators based in Colorado Springs. They collectively lead artists at Sanctuary Studios, offering healing art and movement classes. Specializing in life-affirming art and whimsical illustration, they bring a wealth of experience creating art for public spaces.

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Their debut with Rotary’s Wings of Change introduces their garden butterfly, "Emerge," which employs circles as a motif symbolizing the continuous cycle of life and growth. Featuring scenes of new beginnings like a cocoon, seed, and sunrise, it evokes themes of light, life, and hope. As the butterfly takes flight amid flourishing plants and vibrant communities, it represents fulfillment and fruition.

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Intricate henna designs intertwine with their illustrations, weaving a cohesive visual narrative that underscores unity and inclusion. "Emerge" stands as a testament to the transformative power of art, showcasing their precision, creativity, and dedication as professional illustrators.

Tara D. Sauvain
Item #307

Tara is in her 30th year of teaching middle school art in District 11. Her experimental approach continuously fuels her creativity and drives her to explore many diverse art mediums as she aims to balance her role as a full-time teacher with her passion for remaining a practicing artist.

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Her journey with Wings of Change began as a tribute to her father’s struggle with Parkinson’s Disease, leading her to create the butterfly piece “Living with the Parking Brake On.” When he passed, Tara and her family sat with him, sharing stories as a sunbeam slowly traveled down his body, allowing them time to adjust to his death and facilitating a gentle transition.

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Following her father’s passing, she found inspiration to create a Dragonfly sculpture for Wings of Change while surrounded by dragonflies at his butterfly monument. The symbolism in her garden dragonfly “Soulfly” reflects themes of change, letting go, and personal interpretation, inspired by the beauty and uniqueness of dragonfly wings. “Soulfly” was born through this exploration, emphasizing the importance of diversity and individuality. The intricate patterns of dragonfly wings, resembling the reflections of a disco ball, highlight the appeal of diverse interpretations, echoing themes of transition and individuality in her artistic journey.

Laura Scott
Item #215

A native of Colorado, Laura loves writing, particularly poetry. Laura proudly owns a gorgeous Shiba Inu named Vixyn Qita, who just turned 4. She enjoys cooking, baking, singing, and solving escape rooms.

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Her petite butterfly, "Rhythm in Red," features sheet music lines and notes flowing beneath a glossy red and black acrylic paint butterfly. Her inspiration for participating in Rotary’s Wings of Change is to support the educational system and the district that benefits from the event's funds, while connecting with others who share the same passion. Having been involved for the past three years, she sees no reason to stop now.

Kristina Storey
Item #322

Kristina  primarily works in watercolor but enjoys exploring various media, including acrylic. Her artwork, from florals and landscapes to still lifes, reflects her deep appreciation for color and nature. In acrylic, she finds a medium that allows for both spontaneity and vibrant, translucent hues.

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As a local artist in Colorado Springs, Kristina has showcased her work in numerous exhibitions and has garnered several awards over the past two decades. She has been a participant in Flight for several years and is excited to contribute to Wings of Change this year.

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Her garden butterfly, "Sunny Side Up," is a bold expression inspired by her love for sunflowers. Having participated previously from 2013 to 2016, Kristina finds joy in supporting her community through projects like Wings of Change and values the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs' impactful initiatives.

Sara Tucker
Item #324

Born in Montana and raised in Colorado, Sara has been sketching, painting, and performing since childhood, earning accolades, awards, and scholarships as a young artist. As an adult, she pursued a career in animal law enforcement, becoming a State Agent with Colorado's Bureau of Animal Protection. Sara served as a voice for the voiceless, advocating for both people and animals in her community, and was featured as a lead officer on the Nat Geo Wild/Disney+ show, Rocky Mountain Animal Rescue. Blessed with two beautiful daughters, she is currently a stay-at-home mother, thanks to her husband's encouragement and support, which has allowed her to reignite her passion for art.

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Sara's fluid paintings, showcased in many local galleries, draw inspiration from surrounding landscapes, capturing the energy and beauty of the natural world. Her garden butterfly, "Among The Trees," reflects the local landscapes of Colorado, with colors that mimic the forest floor's palette. Deep, rich greens illuminate under the sun, while shimmering lights filter through thick branches, casting bold shadows from layers of rocks and leaves that blanket the earth. Sara's deep connection to District 11 schools, where she grew up and where her daughters now attend, drives her passion for supporting arts and sciences education. Participating in Wings of Change allows her to contribute to her community, promote the arts she loves, and ensure students have access to enriching programs.

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During a live painting session Sara was doing at Platte Collections Gallery during her exhibit there as a featured artist, she had the opportunity to become acquainted with the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs and Wings of Change.  "This is a wonderful chance for me to continue to support the community I live in, the arts that I love and the chance for other students to have the same access to the amazing programs I was lucky enough to be part of as a D11 student."

Jeanie Turse
Item #325

Jeanie has taken art classes at Pikes Peak State College and has exhibited in several shows at Downtown Studio and Cacao Chemistry. With a background in public and school health as a registered nurse, Jeanie balances her career with her passions for travel and community volunteer work. Inspired by organic forms found in nature and science, Jeanie creates art that reflects her admiration for these elements.

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Her garden butterfly, “Miro Wings of Change,” draws inspiration from the artist Joan Miro. Jeanie aimed to capture Miro’s whimsical and abstract designs on the canvas of a butterfly. Miro's art seamlessly blends images from the real and the imaginary world, characterized by bright colors and abstract forms that translate beautifully into vibrant butterfly patterns.

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Jeanie is dedicated to supporting community art initiatives and values the impact of arts education in schools. She has previously contributed garden-sized and petite butterflies, as well as a dragonfly, to the Wings of Change project.

Michelle Watkins
Item #319

Michelle's garden dragonfly, "Seasons," draws inspiration from the picturesque Colorado landscape, specifically reflecting the transitions between summer and fall. She participates in Rotary’s Wings of Change due to its significant impact and positive contributions to the community.

Grayson Wissbaum
Item #216

Grayson is 14 years old and lives in Bend, Oregon.  This is the third petite butterfly he has painted for the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs. Alongside his siblings, he paints under the guidance of his grandmother, Laurel Bahe, during their vacation stays in Colorado. Grayson is actively involved in sports such as soccer, cross-country running, high jump, and soccer refereeing. His painting style is characterized by its fluidity and spontaneity, reflecting his natural approach to art, which he makes appear effortless.

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Grayson's petite butterfly, "Rizz Wizz," is described as "splashy and wild," capturing his energetic and uninhibited artistic expression.

COS District 11 Artists

COS District 11 Artists

Bristol Elementary School
Item #200

Students in the Bristol Butterfly Club,  Ellie, Anahliah  Gentrie, Rozalia, Haleigh, Colby, Madelyn, Graeson, Amelia led by teachers Melissa Matzen and Cathy Banoczi created a petite butterfly “STEAMing Wings of Bristol”.  The students got the inspiration to create a butterfly that represented Bristol’s STEAM pathway. They planned out their part of the wing by researching Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math doodles. However, they also learned in our butterfly club about the symmetry of butterfly wings, so they each had to work with a partner while planning the front and back of each wing. The A (art is represented at the base of the stand. The students ranged from 3rd-5th grade.

Grant Elementary School
Item #201

Maria Medina & Adriana Esteban Chavez, two wonderfully creative 5th grade students created this Grant Lions inspired butterfly. They named their petite butterfly “Leo” after their school mascot the lion, AND after Lepidoptera (butterfly). The girls came up with the designs for all surfaces on the metal sculpture, keeping in mind the culture of Grant. The colors reflect Grant’s school colors of yellow and gold, and the words characteristics of our school and how students and staff strive to treat one another. The girls worked after school and during many recess times to complete the project. The Grant community couldn’t be prouder!

McAuliffe Elementary School
Item #203

Petite butterfly "Sweet Summertime", created by fifth graders Avery Chavez, Savannah Wright, Madison Whittaker and Leighton Keilman, is a fun tribute to summer.  The artists chose a vibrant fruit theme, painting the butterfly to look like a juicy watermelon, complete with colorful rind and seeds.  The stand holding the butterfly is designed to resemble a zesty lemon, adding to the refreshing summer feel.  Together, these elements capture the essence of summer and make "Sweet Summertime" a joyful and playful piece.  

Palmer High School
Item #204

Student artists Sydney Black and Vincent O'Neill represent "Garden of the Gods" on their petite butterfly.  The top is Garden of the Gods; life, sunshine and happiness inspired by Sydney and the underside is the end of life represented by Vincent. 

Queen Palmer Elementary School
Item #202

Student artist Bella Espanoza, guided by her teacher Danielle Stuart created a petite butterfly "Queen Butterfly".

Trailblazer Elementary School
Item #205

5th grade Trailblazer Elementary student, Ember Barron, painted a petite butterfly "Sunset" saying it was a fun new art challenge.  Her inspiration was the feeling of a warm sunset. 

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