Gary Hauschulz-Grand Valley Arts Advocacy Award

Gary is an amazing multi-talented artist who resides in Grand Junction Colorado and he is an incredible being. On 5/18/24, Gary received the Grand Valley Arts Advocacy Award lifetime achievement in the fields of mentoring, imagining and inspiring community through the arts! There were amazing speeches given but I was only able to videotape a few of them. Here is Gary’s speech and slideshow.

I had always loved Gary’s bronze dinosaur sculptures that are in front of one of our local hospitals and on our Main Street, but I did not know Gary until we had a rally to try to save our local community swimming pool, the Orchard Mesa Community Center Pool (Save Orchard Mesa Pool Facebook page). Gary spent many years as a swim coach and gave an amazing speech during our rally.

From the first time I spoke to him on the phone until I finally met him in person, I knew I had met a kindred spirit. Gary has a twinkle in his eye and a quick smile that lights up the universe. Gary’s art matches his being as well as he creates whimsical dinosaur sculptures and many other beautiful pieces of art.

Thank you Gary, for the incredible contribution you have given to our community by: sharing your beautiful art; your teaching skills; your community engagement by volunteering to take care of all sculptures in our community and in other capacities and for your support of the Orchard Mesa Community Center Pool. You are the best and I hope our paths cross again soon. Hats off to you Gary, a toast to you and a deep bow of gratitude, love and respect. My deepest congratulations to you and Namaste’ 🥰.