Through the Lens: David Thoutt’s Visual Odyssey at Gilpin Library

JOHN SCARFFE

GILPIN COUNTY – The Gilpin County Library hosted an Artist Reception for the exhibition “Silent Stories: A photographer’s journey” on Saturday, January 11, from noon to 2 p.m., celebrating the work of David Thoutt.

Thoutt was recently honored with Best of Show in the 77th Annual Gilpin Arts National Juried Art Show for his piece “Monochrome Gateway.”

Harv Mastalir, chair of the Gilpin County Public Library Board of Trustees, discovered Thoutt’s work at the juried art event and assisted in organizing the exhibit for the library.

With 40 years of professional photography experience, he is a native of Colorado and has captured images around the globe.

He began taking photographs at the age of eight, during a family camping excursion when he took his family’s camera without permission. When the developed images were revealed, his parents questioned, “Who took these pictures?” When Thoutt confessed, they were pleasantly surprised to find the photos were remarkable.

Today, he is an accomplished fine art photographer passionate about showcasing the beauty of the world through his lens. With four decades in the field, he has refined his skills and cultivates a profound admiration for photographic art. “My work covers a wide array of subjects, including landscapes, wildlife, architecture, and abstract forms,” he mentions.

Over the years, Thoutt has developed a distinctive viewpoint that enables him to highlight the intricate features and stunning moments found in both natural and man-made settings. Through his imagery, he aspires to immerse viewers in the essence of each scene, evoking feelings and fostering a sense of awe.

As stated on his website, “David’s photographic journey is a lifelong expedition that has brought him to numerous corners of the globe. He thrives on adventure and the excitement of uncovering new landscapes and hidden treasures. Whether it’s a secluded wilderness, a vibrant urban area, or the delicate beauty of abstract shapes, he draws inspiration from everywhere he ventures.”

“Through David’s creations, he aims to convey his profound connection to the world and inspire others to perceive the remarkable in the mundane. Each image produced by David stands as a testament to his lasting passion for photography and the infinite opportunities it affords to capture the spirit of our ever-evolving world.”

Thoutt specializes in landscape and travel photography. He reflected, “I was raised just outside of Denver in a small county seat town, yet I was close to the metropolitan area. I have been fortunate to experience both urban and rural lifestyles. Being near the mountains truly is the cherry on top, as they say.”

“My intention with my photography is to narrate a story within the image, to convey my emotions, to envision the picture before the shutter clicks, and subsequently to share that narrative with the world.”

The exhibit at the Library is accessible to the public until February 1. Feel free to visit the showcase during the Library’s operating hours. For further details regarding David Thoutt, please see his website at www.davidthouttphotography.com.

The Gilpin County Public Library located at 15131 Highway 119, Black Hawk, Colorado, 80422, operates on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The contact number is 303-582-5777 and you can email at gilpinlib@gilpincounty.org.