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Curt Halsted’s Retrospective Art Exhibit: A legacy of inspiration

MINDY LEARY
Posted 1/29/25

CENTRAL CITY – Gilpin County School District's longtime art teacher, Curt Halsted, is retiring after 24 years of shaping young artists and fostering creativity within the community. 

To mark this significant transition, Halsted has curated a...

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Curt Halsted’s Retrospective Art Exhibit: A legacy of inspiration

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CENTRAL CITY – Gilpin County Schools’ longtime art teacher, Curt Halsted, is retiring after 24 years of shaping young artists and fostering creativity within the community. 

To mark this significant transition, Halsted has curated a retrospective art show, displayed at the Gilpin Arts Association in Central City, that showcases the work of past and present students—a  colorful testament to the artistic journey they have shared.

His ability to nurture artistic potential has resonated far beyond the walls of the classroom, bringing together his current and former students through time and space.

“When I decided I was going to retire, I really wanted to get in touch with a lot of the past students and keep bringing things together as a way of processing the past 24 years and doing a rite of passage more or less so I could feel comfortable retiring.”

The idea of the retrospective show became a labor of love, with Halsted reaching out to former students through social media, texts, and personal contacts. 

“I encouraged them to submit anything they were creating – whether it was fine art or something they were incorporating into their daily lives,” he shared. 

“When students found out that I was retiring, they were just so appreciative. And it was really nice to get that feedback, that I actually made an impression on them and they remembered their art experiences so well.”

The response was overwhelming, with over 125 pieces filling the gallery space. 

Notably, Halsted welcomed all submissions without rejection, ensuring that every artist, whether a recent graduate or a longtime alum, had their work represented. 

“It’s not about deadlines; it’s about creating quality work. I always give extensions because art takes time,” he said.

One of the key contributors to the success of the show was local artist Joleen Sheldon, who assisted with the submission process through her company, The Emotional Theater. 

“Joleen's help with organizing and streamlining submissions through a QR code and website was invaluable,” said Halsted.

The retrospective features an eclectic mix of media, from traditional paintings to digital art, sculpture, and multimedia installations. 

Former students such as Zsatira and Blaizun Diamond, graduates of the class of 2019, contributed pieces that reflect their artistic growth. 

Zsatira, now pursuing a degree in ceramics at CU Boulder, exhibited a showcase of pottery and prints inspired by Boulder’s historic Valmont Butte mine.

Katelyn Waterman was an AP Art student who moved to Nebraska after graduating. “She would spend hours and hours in the art room, so when she found out that we were having this retrospective, she was so excited,” beamed Halsted.

One standout piece is a conceptual sculpture by current student JJ Johnson. His work, a chair seemingly swallowed by a wall, reflects his deep engagement with conceptual art. 

Spencer Wellman made a remarkable journey, driving all the way from Ohio with his family to Colorado to take part in the show and support his former teacher.

Other highlights include the “Making Connection, Processor, Interconnector” installation, a collaborative effort using discarded media such as typewriters, cameras, and projectors to create an interactive art experience. 

Inspired by the Fluxus art movement, it promotes the process and experience of art rather than the final product. The installation invites visitors to type secret messages onto carbon paper, leaving behind a trail of anonymous thoughts.

Family connections also played a significant role in the exhibition. Halsted's own children, Ezra and Nina, contributed artwork, and their collaboration with their friend Rosey Jones, a sound engineering student at NYU, brought an auditory dimension to the show.

The upper room of the gallery offers an experiential art experience, inviting viewers to engage and interact with the pieces in meaningful ways.

Two more receptions are planned: one on February 5, during the middle of the week, from 4 to 7:30 p.m. to accommodate students; The closing reception will be February 23, 12-3.

Halsted reflected on the rewarding nature of the retrospective, noting how students from different generations contributed to the exhibit. 

He expressed his appreciation for seeing former students, now parents themselves, encouraging their own children to explore art, creating a sense of continuity and growth – like planting a seed and watching it flourish over time.

Early in his career, Halsted dedicated significant time to working with young people who had experienced abuse and trauma. He was employed at a group home and a school that primarily served students from Chicago’s inner city, many of whom faced serious challenges. 

He quickly recognized how profoundly negative experiences can diminish a person’s spirit. 

As an art teacher, Halsted has always worked to welcome students as they are and nurture their potential. His approach focuses on helping them embrace their growth and achievements while guiding them through difficult times when life feels overwhelming. 

One of his core beliefs is that what truly matters is how individuals perceive themselves, rather than the opinions of others. He maintains that if someone fails to recognize the good within a person, it is their loss for not looking closely enough.

As Halsted prepares for the next chapter of his life, he remains committed to the belief that art is not just about skill but about self-discovery and expression.

“I've always encouraged students to take chances and embrace opportunities. Art is about growth, and I want them to see their potential and embrace it fully.”

Halsted extends his heartfelt thanks to Joleen Sheldon, Darren Newburg, and Rayna Durnen for their invaluable contributions to the show.

The Retrospective Art Exhibit stands as a vibrant celebration of Halsted’s impact on the Gilpin County community. It is not just a farewell, but a legacy that will continue to inspire students for years to come.

To meet Halsted and some of his students, attend the next reception at the Gilpin County Arts Association at 117 Eureka Street in Central City, on February 5, 2025, from 4 to 7:30 p.m.