Learn, discover, create, and connect with Mesa County Libraries 970West Studio Artist in Residence Devan Penniman during her open studio hours every Tuesday from 4-6 p.m.

Artist Statement:

"Through my artist in residency, I am hoping to share my love of paper-based goods with the community. I love letterpress printing, and I love being able to share it with people. Paper is something we can touch and hold, and the opportunities to create with it are boundless. My work is mostly centered around words and the manipulation of letters. I thoroughly enjoy destroying to recreate, smearing ink across the paper and making art for art's sake."

Artist Biography:

Devan is a baker, letterpress printer, zine creator, co-director of the CMU Art and Design Alumni Chapter and overall creative problem solver. She lives in Fruita with her partner, their husky and an abundance of plants, old things, and books. After graduating college with a BFA in Graphic Design she entered a pit of depression, not knowing what to do next, so she went and hiked the PCT (Pacific Crest Trail), where she cried all her fears out. Since being back, she knew she wanted to embody the words: community, creativity, and passion. She enjoys putting together events that bring people together through art, such as the Fruita Zine Party, art get-togethers and pop-up galleries that showcase local artists. Paper is her passion, whether it's setting type and letterpress printing on some nice thick cotton paper, creating a zine with friends or adding to her collection of old books.