While listening to filmmaker Ken Burns on a podcast, I heard him say, “My core value is love multiplies.” I wasn’t expecting this from an award-winning documentarian who has brought everything from baseball to jazz – and now the American Revolution – to our television screens. Yet his words instantly brought to mind a recent experience at the Durango Arts Center.
During the second week of a youth art class, a 10-year-old student quietly stepped into the DAC art studio. They had missed the first session, and the other students were already chatting comfortably, clay tools in hand. The student took a small breath, introduced themself and added in a soft voice, “I don’t have any friends.”
Before the adults in the room could react, one of the students looked up and said, “You have friends now.” Another child immediately stood and wrapped them in a hug. Within moments, the whole group had gathered around, offering their own hugs and welcoming the student as though they’d been there from the start. From that point on, they settled in – smiling, creating and belonging. This student attends class through a scholarship made possible by generous donors to the DAC.
As Colorado Gives Day approaches on Dec. 9, I invite you to make love multiply with a financial gift to the DAC. All the details are available on our website: www.durangoarts.org.
Burns’ statement has stayed with me all week. Love truly multiplies at the DAC: When a shy theater student is comforted by a staff member and encouraged to do one brave thing that day. Soon that student has dried their tears and is tackling the fear of singing on stage. Love radiates when the audience rises in a standing ovation after a Durango Arts Repertory Theater performance. And it takes many forms – such as when a professional artist commits to a 2026 exhibit in the Barbara Conrad Gallery and invites teens in the Great Opportunities through Art and Leadership program to design the show’s interactive components. I now find myself seeing all the wonders at the DAC through this lens.
As love grows at the DAC, it increases participation from community members and expands the joy of artistic expression. It ripples through local nonprofits that bring their films and events to the DAC Theater. And it lifts all of us when we commit to funding the arts. Let’s not forget our love of all things Snowdown, including the many Follies performances in January.
When it comes to making a gift to the DAC, I believe action is what separates a thought from a true belief. Certainly, you have thought that the DAC is a great community asset. By making a financial investment, you transform that thought into a belief – one that benefits hundreds of people.
We also need three dependable laptop computers (PC or Mac) and six gently used digital cameras for a new class. Email me at info@durangoarts.org to donate and kindly make your financial gift at www.durangoarts.org.
Beth Lamberson Warren is executive director of Durango Arts Center.
