George Patterson
Art Specialist at J. Churchill Owen Boys & Girls Club
On March 8, 1982, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver welcomed George Patterson, an invaluable Art Specialist at J. Churchill Owen Boys & Girls Club whose creativity and dedication have left a lasting impact on generations of young artists. For over four decades, George has transformed the art room into a space where kids of all ages feel inspired to explore, create, and grow.
A Journey Rooted in Art and Innovation
Originally from Pennsylvania, George came to Colorado with a background in graphic design, landscaping, construction, and fine arts teaching. After seeing an ad for an arts specialist position for what was then Boys Clubs of Denver, he seized the opportunity to use his skills to make a difference.
Resources in the art room were limited at the time, but George didn’t let that hold back his art programs. His creativity and adaptability allowed him to make the most of whatever materials were available, sparking joy and imagination in kids’ lives. This inventive mindset has inspired countless young artists, helping them unlock new levels of creativity with the tools at hand.
A Spooktacular Tradition: The Annual Haunted House
Throughout the year, Club members participate in cherished art projects, from the Easter Hat Parade to the Pinewood Derby, but George’s favorite event is the annual haunted house. This thrilling event transforms the Club and brings kids, especially teens, together for a unique creative collaboration.
While teens typically spend their time in the teen center, the haunted house draws them into the art room to help create spooky decorations and contribute to the haunting atmosphere. “I normally don’t spend that much time with so many teens,” George shares. “It’s amazing, and honestly, I really enjoy scaring the bejeebers out of the kids!”
Donning a skeleton costume, George becomes part of the attraction, flying through the haunted house on a zip line and ensuring every visitor gets a glimpse of his ghostly alter-ego. The haunted house has become a Club tradition, inspiring creativity, teamwork, and a little bit of spooky fun for members of all ages.
Building Bonds Beyond Art
One special connection George has maintained over the years is with Mia, a former Club member now studying at CU Boulder. As a young artist, Mia treasured her time in the art room with George. They painted together in their 6x6 Club—a group they started where they paint 6” x 6” canvases based on a shared theme and then reveal their finished work. Mia continues to visit the Club on occasion to share new and unfinished pieces with George, seeking his guidance and tips to refine her skills and elevate her artwork. With George’s mentorship, Mia continues to grow as an artist, always eager to learn and improve.
Another member, Blanca, found herself pushed to her artistic limits when George challenged her to accomplish the near impossible and recreate Albrecht Dürer’s intricate hare drawing for her Easter hat. Although she doubted herself initially, George’s encouragement empowered her to persevere and accomplish something she never thought possible.
The Heart of an Artist and Mentor
George's mentorship in the Club extends far beyond teaching artistic techniques. George instills valuable lessons in resilience, self-belief, and respect. George shared, “I hope to encourage kids to give their best effort in any project, whether it’s a simple coloring page or an intricate sculpture.” He emphasizes that true pride in one’s work comes from the time and effort invested. Additionally, respect for materials is a core lesson in George’s art room, fostering an appreciation for the creative process. George’s influence not only shapes Club members' artistic journeys but extends into their lives long after they leave the art room.
Leaving a Legacy, One Masterpiece at a Time
Every year, George welcomes a new wave of Club members, each bringing unique stories and talents. In his 42-year journey with Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, he’s watched kids come and go, sharing laughter, creativity, and countless memories with the young artists who fill the art room. His impact will live on in the creativity he has inspired and the lives he has shaped, one masterpiece at a time.