Judge Lionel Sanchez
A native of Colorado by several generations, Lionel P, Sanchez was born and raised in Trinidad, located in the southern part of the state. His keen interest in art appeared at an early age, but he did not begin serious study until after service in the U. S. Navy. Formal studies were at Auraria Community College in Denver. From there he attended numerous workshops in New Mexico and Colorado with Joseph Boehler, Jose Sanchez, William Condit, Kim Mackey and Carole Barnes.

Lionel’s subjects are whatever attracts his attention at the moment. His mastery of drawing is evident in his frequent choice of architectural subjects both urban and rural. To these he brings bold expression in both line and color. The wonders of nature have also been preserved by Lionel in watercolor, from rocky mountain peaks to florals captured in a local garden. Frequent travels about the country yield still more varied subjects for Lionel’s unique interpretation. Whatever his subject, Lionel combines the authentic enthusiasm of the small town boy he was, with the mature, urban sensibilities of today.

His works hang in numerous corporate, business and private collections in Denver, in other countries, and throughout the Southwest region, a region to which he has a special affinity. Lionel has also taught workshops at the Foothills Gallery in Golden, Colorado, the Arvada Art Center in Arvada, Colorado, and Red Rock Community College in Lakewood, Colorado, as well as several venues throughout Florida.

Lionel has signature status in the Colorado Watercolor Society, Florida Watercolor Society, Miami Watercolor Society, and Gold Coast Watercolor Society. He is also past president of Miami Watercolor Society (2012-2013). Other awards include five Best-of-Shows, numerous 1st Place, 2nd Place, 3rd Place and Honorable Mentions.