On September 12, The Dairy Center for the Arts paid tribute to seven outstanding individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the arts in the Boulder County community. This year Susan Booker, Lafayette’s Cultural Resources Coordinator, was recognized for her efforts to champion arts and cultural development in Lafayette.
Susan Booker is an artist, a creative and a champion for the arts. Her sculpture “Within our Reach” sits in front of the Lafayette Public Library. She was at the helm of Cultural Resources Division when Lafayette won the 2012 Governor’s Arts Award; her vision and dedication has driven some amazing programs in Lafayette.
“Lafayette’s art scene has gone from nothing to something special under Susan Booker’s guidance,” said Gary Klaphake, Lafayette City Manager. “She ignited the spark that brought the arts landscape alive in our community.”
The Art Night Out summer series has grown under Booker’s guidance. Her leadership has ensured that this community event continues to be anchored by the arts, to be enjoyed by people of all ages and cultural backgrounds. Mayor Pro-Tem, Gustavo Reyna, said, “The most impressive thing about Booker is her complete commitment and dedication. She deals with seemingly impossible challenges with grace and kindness. She loves what she does and shares that enthusiasm with others, to help build a community that appreciates and promotes the arts.”
Art on the Street, Sculpture on loan program, the largest of its kind in Boulder County, is another example of her dedication to depth of development. It includes an all-ages curriculum and on-line interviews. Booker brought the See & Respond Art and Poetry contest to life, inviting community to respond to the sculpture on the street. The Meet the Artists reception has evolved into an inclusive art and poetry show drawing more than 100 people including sculptors, poets, artists, and residents of all ages. Loveland sculptor Diane Mason said, “Susan Booker is an incredible ‘force of nature’ when it comes to promoting the arts in Lafayette and supporting the artists in every conceivable manner. Lafayette is most fortunate to have her directing their arts programs, and we artists have felt privileged to work with her and consider her a friend.”
Susan Booker oversees the Lafayette Cultural Arts Commission, the Lafayette Public Art Committee and serves on the ARTS!Lafayette Non-profit board of directors.