There’s a moment I live for—when a creative person leans back in their chair, exhales, and says something like, “You know, I’ve never actually said this out loud before…”
That’s the spark.
That’s Creative Voices.
As Arts Perspective relaunches, I knew I wanted a signature series that shines a spotlight on the artists, makers, musicians, writers, and creative spirits who energize the vibrant culture of Southwest Colorado. And I wasn’t interested in just a quick bio or a slick press release—no. I wanted honest conversations. I wanted stories. I wanted to sit across from someone, look them in the eyes, and ask the kinds of questions that stick with you long after the camera’s turned off.
Starting this December, Creative Voices becomes our flagship in-person interview series—one conversation a month, filmed on location, raw and honest, filled with laughter, curiosity, and the unpredictable magic that unfolds when two people sit down and really talk.
Why Creative Voices?
Because stories matter.
Because people inspire.
Because in every artist’s journey—every messy beginning, every left turn, every leap of faith—there’s something that resonates with the rest of us.
And because after years of promoting the arts in this region, I’ve learned that the creative process is rarely straightforward. It’s more like a jazz riff or a back-porch jam session—unexpected, soulful, filled with call-and-response moments that reveal who we are under the surface.
Creative Voices is my chance to capture those moments.
What to Expect
Each episode features one creator—musician, painter, performer, writer, filmmaker, culinary artist, dreamer, or builder—who leaves their fingerprints on the artistic landscape of our region. We sit down and dive into the rhythms of their journey: the twists and turns, the moments of doubt, the unexpected breakthroughs, the people who shaped them, and the passion that keeps them moving forward.
No pretense. No stiff Q&A. Just genuine conversation—camera rolling, coffee (or wine) in hand, creativity flowing at its own pace.
And because this is Southwest Colorado, don’t be surprised if one month we’re filming in a gallery, the next in a backstage hallway, and then suddenly on a sun-drenched winery patio with a mountain breeze drifting through. (Four Leaves, I see you.)
A Personal Note
If you know me—and many of you do—you know that building community through storytelling is my passion. Whether it’s ukulele jams, interviews with musicians at the Concert Hall, arts coverage for the region, or coffee-shop chats that turn into full-blown life lessons… The people around me endlessly inspire me.
Creative Voices is more than an interview series. It’s a love letter to the creatives who make this region special.
It’s a thank-you.
It’s a celebration.
It’s an invitation.
Want to Be Featured? Tell Me Your Story.
I mean it.
If you’re a creator with something to say—or if you know someone whose story deserves a microphone—reach out. Let’s talk.
dleslie@artsperspective.skompini.com
You never know… the next Creative Voices conversation just might be yours.
