By Joan Dacus

Art is Joan's true passion, expressed through a variety of mediums such as bronzes, stone carvings, wood carvings, wood masks, decorative gourds, paintings and glass-on-glass mosaics. Creating a bronze trophy for UCCS and CSU Pueblo has been a highlight for her. Her goal is to instill a feeling of happiness and joy in those who observe, enabling them to take a moment and recognize the boundless potential that resides within each and every one of us. Originally from Colorado Springs, She currently resides in Canon City, CO, where she indulges in playing the piano, listening to music, exploring the outdoors, and cherishing moments with her loved ones.

Joan's garden butterfly "Nature's Song" inspiration stems from her deep love for music and her passion for playing the piano. Music is a universal language. Her petite dragonfly "Mind Bender" was inspired simply to challenge the brain in a mind bending way. It is a privilege for her to have been part of the Wings of Change (formerly Flight) artist program for 5 years. She has created 8 butterflies for this program (2016 Messenger, 2017 Sunset Silhouette and Razzle Dazzle, 2019 Sunny Day and Fly Free, 2022 Hello Doily and New Vibrations, 2023 My Generation). She appreciates the opportunity to contribute to the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs Service Fund, which in turn supports our community and promotes the significance of children's involvement in arts and sciences.