Lauren Young’s Colorado Favorites: Acknowledging local creatives and inspirations

Sept. 10, 2025

Note: Direct quotes were edited for typos, to observe AP style guidelines and to fit the listicle structure.

Lauren Young, the founder of Western and disco-centric art studio Abtruse, puts time into getting to know artists that share aspects of her style and exploring places that inspire her.

For this week’s “Favorites” entry, Young highlighted three Denver creatives and a subset of places across the state that influence her playful artistic vision.

1.     Nicoleta Paints

Lauren Young collaborates with Nicoleta Paints, someone she considers a friend.

“My dear friend Nicoleta Paints makes exceptional miniature art charms and whimsical designs.”

According to her website, Nicoleta Dumville is a mixed-media artist who specializes in paintings, collages, clothing and accessories that primarily feature aspects of the American West.

Her portfolio features everything from an outfit in Meow Wolf’s Trashion Show at Convergence Station to Gouache nature paintings and work for a Duke’s Mayo Campaign.

Anyone interested in viewing her portfolio and any upcoming events she has a role in can find them on her website.

2.     Mike Cashino

Another friend of Young’s, Mike Cashino, is a multidisciplinary artist who creates paintings and sculptural installations.

His website features nature-focused and botanical paintings and sculptures, including some that combine people with plants and 3D cacti sculptures. He also integrates graphic design into his work.

More information on Cashino is available on his portfolio website.

3.     Ariana Barnstable

According to her website, Ariana Barnstable is the “western contemporary artist” behind Fikkachica. She creates immersive art installations, is Young’s partner and provides works for local organizations like RiNo Art District.

“My longtime artistic partner Ariana Barnstable of Fikkachica makes beautiful Western-inspired art — her minimal designs have such big impact.”

Barnstable’s website also features original pieces, large-scale cowgirl paintings and prints, all of which are available for purchase.

She also hosts events and pop-ups, which are available to view on her website.

4. Colorado’s National Parks

Young enjoys spending time in nature, and she said elements of the state’s national parks influence her work.

“Outside of people, I always find inspiration in Colorado’s national parks. If I’m lucky, you’ll catch me hiking to an alpine lake to chase a different kind of glimmer in my free time.”