First-semester student at Cochise College

Art, music, dance, food, and three great bonfires were part of the experience that the Cochise College Art Department prepared for the community on Thursday, December 3. The event was a celebration of art and of the hard work and commitment that department students showed during the fall semester that will soon come to an end. 

Throughout the afternoon, community members — both young and old — began making their way to the Art Department facilities located at the Douglas Campus to take a look at guests Lucy and Lorenzo Bugarini’s demonstration of the construction and decorating process of a Mata Ortiz vessel. Many had a chance to purchase ceramic art that was brought directly from Chihuahua, Mexico made with clay gathered from the artists’ surroundings, brushes made from real hair, and different oxides for decorating.

Despite the cold weather, attendees smiled and chatted as they enjoyed the art exhibit and the silent auction of artwork donated by students. As the afternoon settled, presentations by the Cochise College Folklorico dancers, and music by acoustic artist Pat Gahn and the Dylan Charles Evolution kept the spirits high as guests, some wrapped in blankets, took part in the vivid “Fiesta”.

Everyone was anxious to try the different types of soups Chef Ken Loresch and his class cooked for the occasion. A great variety of soups accompanied by a piece of bread was available. The culinary students showed great team work and baking skills as they delighted guests with different types of cookies, cakes and hot cocoa.

Country music surrounded the environment while everyone ate and w