On October 2nd, the Brighton Cultural Arts Commission (BCAC) proudly celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Excellence in Arts Awards–a decade of honoring and acknowledging the incredible artists who inspire creativity, connection, and culture in Brighton and beyond.
Over the past ten years, this event has recognized outstanding contributors in categories such as Master in Performing Arts, Master of Visual Arts, Master of Literary Arts, Arts in Education, Visionary, Exceptional Volunteer, Beyond Brighton, and Arts in the Community.
Each year, we are reminded just how much talent and dedication thrive within our community, and this year’s honorees were no exception.
Master of Visual Arts: Zachary Reece
Zachary is an amazing pointillism artist. His pieces draw you in with their intricate detail, and as you step back to view them in full, you are met with a sense of peace, thoughtfulness, and wonder. Through his art, Zachary reminds us of the beauty that emerges when patience, passion, and vision come together.
Master of Performing Arts: Kristina Bobrowski
Kristina really stood out in all she has accomplished. She serves on the board of directors for PVTA and brings her talent and heart to the stage as both a stage manager and assistant director. Her commitment goes far beyond titles. She pours her time, love, and energy into every production, ensuring that each performance shines.
Master of Literary Arts: Kerrie Joy
Kerrie was the first Poet Laureate of Adams County. She partnered with Anythink Library during her two-year residency to create and lead poetry programs for all seven branches, bringing creativity, reflection, and joy to countless community members. She has been an amazing contributor to the Brighton community with her acceptance, creativity, and passion.
Outstanding Volunteer: Diane DeVries
If you attended the Excellence in Arts event, you would have seen why she won this amazing award. Even to the committee members, as Diane accepted her award, we were blown away with the number of activities she has been a part of. Though many of us had not seen all that she has done, her contributions have strengthened and enriched the Brighton art scene in countless ways. Diane’s selflessness, reliability, and heart for the arts make her truly remarkable.
Beyond Brighton: Jeffrey Parker
We honored an amazing actor who has delighted so many with his award-winning performances for PVTA. Beyond his on-stage brilliance, Jeff generously gives his time and talent behind the
scenes, supporting PVTA because he believes deeply in the mission of the company and the vibrancy of our community. Jeff is a tenured professor in the Theatre Department at Metropolitan State University and serves as the Director of Text and Speech for the Colorado Shakespeare Festival. He is also a frequent dialect coach for the Denver Center for the Performing Arts and the Arvada Center.
Master of Cultural Arts in Education: Elizabeth Castor and Nathan Shaver
These two amazing teachers helped create the 27J Student Art Show. Their efforts go beyond logistics; they have built a wonderful rapport with both students and parents, creating an environment where young artists feel supported, inspired, and proud of their accomplishments. Through their guidance, the art show has become not just an event, but a true celebration of creativity and community.
Visionary: Tim and Claudia at Berry Patch Farms
Tim and Claudia are two visionaries whose work reminds us that farming is not only a science–it is an art. Since 1991, Tim and Claudia have poured their hearts into Berry Patch Farms, creating a space where cultivation and creativity thrive side by side. Since 1994, families and friends of all ages have experienced the joy of picking their own strawberries, raspberries, currants, pie cherries, plums, pickling cucumbers, and flowers–turning every visit into a culinary adventure and a memory in the making. Through their dedication to organic farming and their commitment to community, Tim and Claudia have transformed the simple act of growing food into a lasting art form that nourishes both body and spirit.
As we reflect on ten years of celebrating creativity, collaboration, and community spirit, BCAC extends heartfelt congratulations to all the 2025 honorees. Their vision and passion continue to shape Brighton into a thriving home for the arts.