Artist Rosemarie Lohnert traveled a long road on her way to a studio in Castle Rock, Colorado.

She taught middle and high school for 23 years. Her husband's job took the family to South America, Europe and the Far East to live.

Rosemarie always found a way to incorporate fine art into the curriculum to spark a creative light in the eyes of her students, but she couldn't seem to find the time to paint while teaching from one end of the world to the other.

Finally, Lohnert retired to Colorado and began to follow her life-long dream. All those exotic places and tropical colors along with Rosie's love of gardening would be translated to paper through her cherished watercolors.

Rosemarie took watercolor classes at Arapahoe Community College and attended workshops and private lessons. Her strong personality is brought to life in the vibrant, transparent colors she brings to bear on a variety of styles from realistic to abstract.

She joined the Greater Castle Rock Art Guild and says the encouragement she receives from other artists keeps her moving ahead. When the Guild began promoting an Adopt an Artist program Rosemarie decided to approach The Shoppes at 200 Perry Street about carrying her line of handpainted greeting cards.

Adopt an Artist pairs a local business with a member of the Art Guild to the mutual benefit of both. She found Kim and Cyndi, the owners of The Shoppes,friendly and receptive.

They were delighted to include Rosemarie's cards and were excited to become a part of GCRAG's Second Saturday Art Walk events taking place this spring and summer on May 12th, June 9th, July 14th and August 11th

The Shoppes were created out of half of Castle Rock's historic feed store at 200 Perry Street. They carry a wide variety of items including equestrian attire, children's clothing, candles, gift baskets, women's accessories and women's clothing. Rosemarie's cards were a charming addition.

Ms. Lohnert finds challenge and relaxation in the palette of her watercolors. You may see firsthand Rosie's vibrant pieces at The Shoppes at 200 Perry Street as well as the current "Romancing the Arts" sale and exhibit at the Philip S. Miller library. "Romancing the Arts" continues until March 15th.

Enjoy the flavor of exotic places and tropical colors brought to life in a Colorado artist's studio.