VALENTINE, Neb. - When you think of art shows, your mind likely paints a picture of a big city. However, this month the traveling Association of Nebraska Art Clubs show has brushed its way into the library in the small town of Valentine.

“I literally like to watch paint dry just to see what it does,” said David Dorsey.

Dorsey not only was awarded Best of Show for his painting, "The Readers," but the professional artist, who lives in Valentine, has won that award three times.

“When I sit down at the easel, all problems go away. You’re so focused on that,” said Dorsey.

For the show, artists from across the state submit hundreds of pieces, with the top 24 earning a spot.

Linda Teahon from Dunning is another award-winning artist, checking out the show in Valentine.

“Right now photography is my thing. I carry a camera with me everywhere I go,” Teahon said.

An art show like this may seem like an unexpected stroke of luck for a small town, but Dorsey says Valentine’s art scene is no accident. In fact, it’s one of the reasons he moved here.

“It’s nice to be around other creative people,”  said Dorsey.

Dorsey is a member of the Sand Painters Art Club, a group that not only sketches connections between artists, but also organizes events like this Paint Along the Niobrara River.

“People from all over the state say, ‘You guys get to do so many fun things. You have people who show up. You have people who participate,' and we do” said Sand Painters Art Club President Joan Swim.

Artists who say it’s about more than just painting a beautiful picture.

“Art is the basis for life. Everything out there, like packaging, it’s everywhere around us. These shows make people more aware,” said Dorsey.

Artwork surrounding big cities and small, coloring our lives with creativity.