Cultural Workshops

Sharon Rouse

Throughout her 25 years as a public and private school Visual Arts educator, Sharon Rouse taught grades  grades k-12. After retirement, she supervised Metropolitan State University student art teachers for 5 years. Sharon’s  degrees are  from the University of Colorado and the University of Northern Colorado. Her watercolors have been accepted into shows and are in private collections.  As a 44-year Denver Art Museum volunteer docent, she has developed programs, led teacher workshops, and continues to teach students and adults.

Frontier Colors at The Fort: A Watercolor Workshop

Unwind with an evening of watercolor and wine as you paint a Colorado Barn Swallow—or a bird of your own choosing. Bring a photo of a bird for inspiration or let your imagination guide you. With step-by-step instruction, this relaxed class is perfect for all skill levels. Sip, paint, and enjoy a creative escape inspired by the beauty of the West.

DATE & TIME:  Wednesday, July 8, 2026 ~ 5:30 PM to 7:30PM

PRICE: $60/person (Includes 2 glasses of wine and guacamole and chips.)

For more information, please call 303-697-4771 x204.

Fort Makers: The Art of Branding Leather & Hats

Have you ever wanted to personalize your favorite hat, belt, boots, or wallet with your initials?

Now’s your chance to come learn how to brand your own items—or bring something you already love and make it truly yours.

Hat designer Elizabeth, from Ella James Hattery will guide you through the process of safely and successfully branding leather and wool goods. You’ll learn what goes into the technique, watch demonstrations, and have the opportunity to try it yourself.

Hats and leather goods will also be available for purchase, or you can bring your own item to brand during the class.

DATE & TIME:  Wednesday, August 5, 2026 ~ 5:30 PM to 7 PM

PRICE: $45/person (includes class and branded cowboy hat keychain)

Please note: this class involves working with fire and may include inherent risks.

Elizabeth DiGiorgio

Elizabeth DiGiorgio is a stylist, salon owner, and hat designer with over 20 years in the beauty industry. She owns The Storybrick, where she combines her salon and hat business into one creative space rooted in beauty, craftsmanship, and self-expression. A single mom and entrepreneur, she balances running two businesses while staying deeply involved in her child’s life, building her brand around resilience, creativity, and following your dreams.

She is also a custom hatmaker known for elevated western pieces that blend tradition with bold modern style. She specializes in hand-finishing and branding hats, creating one-of-a-kind pieces and interactive experiences at live events and pop-ups, including showcases at venues like The Fort. Her work has been worn by artists including Reba McEntire, and she also designs Kentucky Derby hats with a fashion-forward, statement-making edge.

Native American Beaded Earring Workshop

Join us for a hands-on Native American beading class focused on creating your own pair of handcrafted beaded earrings. Guided by an experienced Indigenous instructor, JoDene Sherwood (Assiniboine, Blackfeet and Cree), participants will learn traditional beading techniques, patterns, and methods for working with needle, thread, and seed beads. This class is suitable for beginners as well as those looking to refine their skills. All materials are provided, and each participant will leave with a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind them.

FUTURE DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED!

Please contact mcarrillo@thefort.com or call 303-839-1671 to be added to the waitlist.

Corks and Canvas

Corks and Canvas is a relaxed, step-by-step painting and wine class designed for all skill levels. 

Gwen Ahlers, an experienced art instructor, will guide guests through creating their own canvas masterpiece while encouraging creativity and personal flair. With a glass of wine in hand, chips and guacamole, and a warm, social atmosphere, everyone will leave with a finished painting.

MORE DATES TO BE ANNOUNCED.