Today's Features

Storytellers use all sorts of devices to convey their tales — visual aids, sound effects, lighting and shadows. But few storytellers actually become the story themselves.

For biographical actors R.D. and Barb Melfi of Pine, this is the essence of their work — not merely acting the role, but living it.

The Melfis have portrayed William “Buffalo Bill” Cody and Annie Oakley, as well as other historical figures, across the country at schools, festivals, shows and conventions, and in movies and commercials.

Every fall, families across the mountain area welcome their old friend Jack — Jack O. Lantern, that is.

Of course, to find Jack, many trek to their local pumpkin patch to pick out exactly what he will look like this year. Among rows of pumpkins and gourds, visitors young and old decide: taller or smaller; more round or more flat; yellow, orange, red or white.

Many Evergreen residents, such as Jamie Brand and her children Gus, 9, and Anna, 7, have visited or will visit JP Total’s Pumpkin Patch as part of their annual fall tradition.

Artists often refrain from providing context for their works. Instead, they leave their work open to personal interpretation, expecting that each painting, photograph or sculpture will bring a unique meaning to each viewer.

But in a new exhibit called “Storytelling,” opening Saturday at the Mirada Fine Art Gallery in Indian Hills, art lovers will have an opportunity they do not always have — to learn background about each of the 30 to 40 pieces on display.

Artists find inspiration everywhere, even their own backyard.

Last week, Jeffco Open Space parks hosted more than 25 professional painters from Colorado and other states as part of the first ever In Plein Sight — an outdoor “plein air” event and art sale organized by PLAN Jeffco.

Organizers said the idea came from one of the participating artists, who had done a plein air painting event in Douglas County parks, and suggested that PLAN Jeffco and Jeffco Open Space could host one as well.