A new perspective
After taking a hiatus for a few years, Arts Perspective magazine is back on the scene, this time in digital form.
Started in 2004 by Heather Martinez, the quarterly print magazine was bought by Denise Leslie, local storyteller, ukulele strummer and arts cheerleader (and beloved former Telegraph helper-outer), in 2010. However, it ceased publication a few years later. But, with Leslie’s continued dedication and enthusiasm, it has now risen from the ashes, with its inaugural digital relaunch going live this week at ArtsPerspectiveMag.com.
Leslie describes it as an independent, digital-first magazine that connects readers with artists, venues and creative stories from across Southwest Colorado. The debut issue, “Beginnings & First Inspirations,” explores how creative lives take shape – from painters and musicians to writers, theatre makers and community visionaries. It includes stories on late local photographer Ray Martinez, husband of Heather who died last April after suffering a stroke, as well as fine artist Tad Smith, water colorist Jan Wright, and writer and gallery curator Bekah Kolbe.
“This relaunch celebrates the people and places that make our region’s creative life so inspiring,” said Leslie in a news release. “It’s about connection, curiosity and honoring the stories that spark imagination.”
New features include:
• Eye on the Arts - A weekly Monday newsletter highlighting events, new work and stories across the region.
• Creative Voices - A video interview series debuting later this month, featuring artists, authors and musicians.
• Annual Print Edition - A spring 2026 release celebrating the year’s standout stories.
Leslie said Arts Perspective welcomes community collaboration and reader support through sponsorship opportunities and the “Buy Me a Coffee” arts patronage platform.
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- 05/28/2026
- Quick 'n' Dirty
- By Missy Votel
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Help for the Demon Bridge, Highway 550 N closure, and fire mitigation falls off
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- 05/28/2026
- Getting crafty
- By Haylee May / Colorado Public Radio
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Colorado brewers buck national trend by adapting to changing times
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- 05/21/2026
- Taming the ART
- By Missy Votel
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City chooses education, striping over speed limit on River Trail
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- 05/21/2026
- Planned Parenthood reopens
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PPRM president credits local community in getting clinic running again
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- Short legs, big party
- 05/28/2026
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On most days, Tracy Harwood spends her time as a court clerk for the City of Durango. But next Thurs., June 4 – International Corgi Day – she hopes to bring something entirely different to town: short legs, wiggly butts and oversized personalities.
- River cowboy
- 05/21/2026
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It’s a mash-up made in Westernwear heaven. Sort of. Seems Chaco, the purveyor of the iconic strappy dirtbag river rat footwear, has joined forces with Wrangler, as in tight jeans, big belt buckles, bull riding and snap shirt fame.
- Making plans
- 05/14/2026
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Wondering what’s up with the old 9-R Admin building at the end of E. 2nd Avenue that was going to be a fire department, then wasn’t going to be a fire department and is now going to be City Hall and the Police Department?The City of Durango will demystify plans for the historic building during a public session Wed., May 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Durango Recreation Center.
- Going for the gold
- 04/30/2026
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Turns out, blondes do have more fun, or at least they get more awards. Last week, Ska Brewing won the gold medal for its True Blonde Ale in the English-Style Pale Ale category at the 2026 World Beer Cup. This is the third win for the Blonde at the World Beer Cup, held in Philadelphia on April 22 and pegged as one of the world’s most prestigious beer competitions.