The Reveal of our 2025 Festival Artwork
Plus, meet our 2025 artist Hannah Wilson!
We are incredibly excited to reveal our 2025 Festival Artwork, the first artwork of our new era under the leadership of new Artistic Director, Vadim Gluzman!
This year’s artwork embodies the joy and celebration we feel as we enter this new season of Music in the Mountains, and includes a very special detail honoring it: an image of the legendary 1690 ‘ex-Leopold Auer’ Stradivari violin Vadim Gluzman performs on, surrounded by joyful, colorful florals painted by local artist Hannah Wilson.
Read on to learn a bit more about this incredible instrument, and to get to know Hannah, the artist behind those beautiful florals!
About the 1690 'ex-Leopold Auer' Stradivari
On extended loan through the Stradivari Society of Chicago, the legendary violin Vadim performs on takes its name from Leopold Auer, who was the most influential teacher of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is a definitive example of Stradivari’s early work, featuring artistic contours, Italian maple, and copper-colored varnish.
In the 1980s, the violin was acquired for use by young violinists in association with The Stradivari Society. Since then, it has been performed on by violin virtuosos from around the world. Our new Artistic Director, Vadim Gluzman, is the current recipient of the “Auer” from the Society. Information courtesy of The Stradivari Society. Photographs courtesy of Bein & Fushi, Inc. Matthew Tolzmann, Photographer
A conversation with Hannah Wilson, this year's Festival Artwork artist
A Durango-based artist specializing in live event painting, colorful murals, and nature-inspired original art, Hannah Wilson painted the vibrant florals surrounding Vadim’s violin in this year’s Festival Artwork. You might also remember Hannah doing a live painting at last year’s special Closing Night Reception!
How would you describe your work for those who might not know you?
I paint impressionistic landscapes in acrylic. I am drawn to the rich colors and hidden hues of the Colorado Plateau and Four Corners region. My fluid, whimsical style transforms familiar desert and mountain scenes, with the hope to capture the unexpected vibrancy of these dramatic landscapes through bright and intuitive color choices and bold brushwork.
When did you first begin producing art & what's your background?
With over 15 years of painting experience, my artistic journey began at age 17 when I took my first painting class and discovered my passion for the craft. My Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture deepened my connection to natural scenes, particularly mountain vistas, and shaped my artistic perspective. For the past five years, I have devoted myself to creating artwork full-time.
How long have you been in Southwest Colorado and how did you end up here?
My roots in the Southwest began in 2017, though my connection to the region started much earlier. As a child, I was drawn to Colorado’s landscape, and a formative course in Escalante, Utah, at age 21 sparked my deep appreciation for the desert. What began as temporary outdoor work in the region evolved into a permanent home, as the landscape’s beauty and adventure compelled me to stay.
Where do you find your inspiration, and what inspired you to work on this piece for Music in the Mountains?
I draw inspiration from the subtle interplay of colors within natural landscapes – the unexpected pinks, oranges, and purple hues that emerge from mountain slopes. This piece juxtaposes a monochromatic Stradivarius violin against Southwestern themes. The vibrant color palette and dramatic contrasts are influenced by my recent mural work in downtown Durango, creating a striking visual dialogue between these distinct elements.
What's your favorite piece of music, classical or otherwise?
When creating art, I’m drawn to meditative sounds like binaural beats and 528 Hz frequencies. These atmospheric soundscapes help maintain my focus and presence while painting, creating an environment that enhances my creative flow.
See More of Hannah's Work:
Get Ready for this year’s Festival!