Florence native Kenneth Cruzen has been selected to exhibit his artwork, Floating Vanita, at the 2026 Chianciano Biennale in Tuscany, Italy, an internationally recognized contemporary art exhibition, which runs from Aug. 15-29, featuring artists from around the world.

Born in Florence, Cruzen is the son of Bob Cruzen, the longtime owner and publisher of the Florence Citizen newspaper. A 1973 graduate of Florence High School, he has spent more than 45 years as a professional artist, illustrator, educator, and designer. His artwork has appeared in magazines, books, video games, apparel, furniture, commercial products, and gallery exhibitions across the United States.

Cruzen also dedicated more than a decade to teaching the next generation of artists. He taught business portfolio development, drawing, and design at Westwood College before joining Platt College of Art and Design, where he continued teaching for seven years.

His work has been exhibited in venues ranging from Caesars Palace in Las Vegas to Broadway in New York City. He was represented by Denver’s Studio 1818 Gallery and exhibited alongside internationally recognized visionary artists Bob Venosa and Martina Hoffmann. After recently returning to his hometown of Florence, his selection for the 2026 Chianciano Biennale brings international recognition to both his distinguished career and his Southern Colorado roots.

Better Birdwatching will be from  9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Royal Gorge Farmers Market, Gateway Depot and Plaza, selling and signing Mountain Birds books.

A free audiovisual program will be held from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on Aug 8 to help patrons learn to identify birds by sight and sound likely to be seen in the Cañon City area during the fall migration season.

The program will be led by birding expert and author Joe LaFleur. Meet at Cañon City Regional Library, 516 Macon Ave. LaFleur will be selling and signing his Mountain Birds books after the program.

For more information, call 719-301-8801 or email joe@betterbirdwatching.com