The artist Carrie Fell was one of the most pleasant people to work with. Easy-going, fun.... but also showing a strong desire to keep on achieving the best she has to give with her extraordinary talents. Along with an over 20 year career, Carrie’s work (many are limited editions) has been shown at numerous fine galleries, represented in both private and corporate collections, and she exhibits her work year-round in various museums. Carrie opened her own gallery in 2011 so she could expand her talents and further create her unique brand of Western subjects like horses, longhorns, cowboys, cowgirls and the infinite sky. With her recognizable style and use of color, it’s hard not to feel joyful when you see one of Carrie’s works.
There's much more to Carrie than just being a successful artist. She was recently honored for her charitable work by the Invisible Disabilities Association at their “Laugh Out Load” gala; and here’s what President and Have You Met, Wayne Connell had to say: “Carrie is one of a kind. Extremely talented with a style all her own and a very generous giver of her time and talent. IDA honored her in 2017 with our “Volunteer Award” because of her passion for helping others. Her smile is beautiful, laugh contagious, and art beyond incredible. I’m honored to call her my friend.”
Carrie is donating a piece of art in honor of her father, who recently passed away, for this year’s Cancer League of Colorado’s “Hope Ball” art auction. HYM Edie Marks and Cancer League powerhouse says: “Carrie is donating a piece of art in memory of her father who died of cancer to us. I bought one of Carrie’s live-auction pieces with one of her beautiful horses a few years ago. It had a red heart standing out on it, with a line below saying: “The most important part is having heart.” This is a true reflection of Carrie. She is the most giving and caring person – and a friend above all!”
Carrie cares deeply about people and is committed to creating work of value – and also do her role in the community. When I asked Carrie for a list of awards she’s won (*see below), she modestly said: “Your work is on your merit and how much you genuinely put into it.”
For International Women’s Day on March 8th, Carrie Fell posted this: “To be or not to be…. Who is the real strong woman? She is the person who finds herself in a situation she doesn’t like, and decides to change it. Be Lovely, Be Strong, Be Grateful…. Become an Inspiration…” and Carrie you are!
*CARRIE FELL AWARDS:
Invisible Disabilities, Volunteer Award, 2017
American Liver Foundation; Buckle Award, 2007
American Liver Foundation; Buckle Award 2006
American Liver Foundation; Buckle Award, 2008
Cancer League Table Sponsor, 2007, 2006
MAGAZINE COVERS/FEATURES:
Western Art and Architecture, (feature) 2016
ART, (cover) 2012
Artist Perspective Magazine, (cover) 2011
Colorado Expressions (cover/feature) 2009
Panache Magazine, Vail, (cover) 2009
Art of the West, (feature) 2008
Salt Lake City Magazine, (cover) 2001
Vail Beaver Creek Magazine, (cover) 1999
Colorado Expression, (cover) 2000
US Art, (cover/feature) 1999
Carrie, you have contributed to so many charitable organizations; which ones are you involved with at this time? Over the last 22 years, I have granted thousands of donation requests in an effort to further local communities and organizations. Donations have ranged from local to national organizations, community efforts, school fundraisers and one-on-one artist-residency programs. I am currently involved with the following in 2018: Chris Anthony Youth Initiative Project; Lindsey Vonn Foundation; Firefly Autism; Cancer League of Colorado; Invisible Disablities; & Canine Companions.
What do you consider your proudest achievement? My painting, “Crazy Mountain Saddle Slickers” acquired by the Booth Western Art Museum for their permanent collection. The Booth Western Art Museum an Affiliate to the Smithsonian Institution, located in Cartersville, Georgia.
Do you have a piece that you can absolutely say is your favorite? There are many. I only hang one of my paintings in my home. It is unlike any of my recognized works, titled “Crossroad” it is also used as my vision board.
You are such an accomplished artist and I can’t think of anyone who doesn’t love your work. How busy are you right now and what are you working on? I maintain relationships with six fine art galleries. My daily studio work concentrates mostly on works for scheduled upcoming exhibitions and events. Currently, I have four commissions working and I paint/embellish an average of four hand-painted editions in the studio each month.
Is Denver now “on the map” of being considered as a major city known for its art scene? I think Denver is a thriving arts and culture scene, from impressive world-class museums to unique art districts and distinctive galleries. Denver may not have the critical mass of New York or Los Angeles, but it’s really remarkable what’s happening here.
How would you describe your style of art? I am a colorist.
Can you tell us what unique and special techniques you use in your work? I paint primarily with my hands.
Do you have to be in a certain "creative" mood to create your pieces? This answer returns me to the intertwined nature of emotion and cognition. There is a cliché that rings true for me I suppose, angst has creative perks.
Where can people see your art pieces? Aspen Grove Gallery, Aspen CO; Horton Fine Art, Beaver Creek, CO; Gib Singleton Gallery, Vail, CO; Clayton Lane Fine Art, Denver, CO; Thomas Anthony Gallery, Park City, UT and Galerie Zuger, Santa Fe, NM and the Carrie Fell Studio, DTC, Denver
Is there a magazine or publication you can’t live without? Architectural Digest and Western Art & Architecture
Is there a book you have read that really inspired you that you can recommend to others? I have an insatiable desire for marketing and business. I was recently gifted by my longtime-collectors two books authored by Jim Collins, “Built to Last, Successful Habits of Visionary Companies and “Good to Great”. The art-business is an exciting opportunity to connect with people and build relationships. My ambition is to remain in this space seeking longevity both in relevance and credibility both for my collectors and myself.
Who is the most interesting person you have ever met? My life is filled with interesting people. It’s hard to name just one.
What do you consider a priceless gift? Time.
What is your fondest childhood memory? My family and growing-up in Denver Colorado
What is something your parents taught you that you have never forgotten? Dedication.
Do you have a quote or saying that has helped guide you through life? “Whoever is trying to bring you down is already below you” and another, “Get out of your own way.”
Is there something you still want to learn how to do? I wish to expand on up to this point has been serious life-lessons to more a focused education on to be effective and an avid business leader in my trade.
What is your biggest fear? Fear.
What should we all be working on these days to make our country better for future generations? Responsibility, accountability and respect for others but mostly for ourselves.
How do we get our young people interested in charitable work and giving back to the community? I feel the answer is the same for any person really. Make it rewarding. People’s lives are hectic more now than ever before. Simply, if you're looking for people help move an organization into the future, make it worth their while. For young people, appeal to the energetic ambitions by offering internships for credit hours or appeal to their go-getting spirit by uniquely uniting them to meet other business leaders or engage them with unique networking opportunities. Ultimately, people should give or volunteer their time because it is a small sacrifice towards the benefit of others…besides, it makes us feel good.
What’s up in the future for the talented Carrie Fell? I am working a book to include a collection of my writings and a photo retrospective on 20-years of painting. Another enterprise I am enthusiastic about is combining my art and understanding of interior design with a venture into textile design.
How would you like to be remembered by future generations? I wish to be remembered as someone who had a desire to live an authentic life. I also want to be recognized subsequently for being brave for everything it took to contribute to this life and through my art.
