The 3 Best Local Non-Musical Artists Around Glenwood Springs

Art in the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys often reflects more than scenery—it captures identity, memory and a sense of place. Local visual artists play a quiet but lasting role in shaping how a community sees itself, whether through gallery work, public installations or commissioned pieces. The Post Independent’s Locals’ Choice contest surfaces artists who connect their craft to the region in tangible ways. From watercolor landscapes to interactive public art, these creators turn personal expression into something shared.

Carmel Walden Watercolors

Carmel Walden, a New Castle-based watercolorist, creates original paintings and giclée reproductions that focus on nature-driven subjects. Her commissioned work often includes personalized portrayals of mountains, wildflowers, pets and children, produced from her studio in a historic family cabin. With a background in Fine Art and Psychology, along with time spent on Navajo and Hopi reservations, her work explores a connection between the natural world and human experience. Walden is active in regional events such as Carbondale Mountain Fair and shows her work in local galleries, including Cooper Corner Gallery.

BritLeeArt

Britny Rayzor, working as BritLeeArt, produces custom visual art that ranges from acrylic paintings to murals and commissioned portraits. Based in Parachute, she focuses on personalized pieces for individuals and businesses, often incorporating bold color and narrative elements. Rayzor uses social media to share her creative process and connect directly with clients, maintaining a steady stream of local commissions. Her presence at craft fairs and art markets highlights her role in representing emerging artistic talent from the lower Colorado River Valley.

Jose Valadez

Jose Valadez works across multiple mediums, including watercolor, acrylic and tattoo design, while also serving as a law enforcement officer in Rifle. He is widely known for his “rock art” project, painting stones marked with his call sign and placing them throughout the Western Slope for others to find. This ongoing effort has created a community-driven scavenger hunt that blends art with public interaction. His recognition in regional Locals’ Choice rankings reflects the strong connection his work has built with residents across the area.

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