Mesa Verde National Park: Living Heritage
On a high plateau in southwest Colorado, sandstone alcoves hold stories of community, ingenuity, and continuity. Mesa Verde National Park invites us to look—and to look responsibly. Through the lens of Doreen McGunagle Fine Art, we focus on honoring place first: art that follows respect.
Why respect comes before the shot
Mesa Verde is connected to descendant communities today. Oils from a single touch can damage plaster; a step beyond a barrier can stress fragile masonry. Respectful distance safeguards cultural resources so future generations—and future visitors—can learn from them.
Ethical photography in a sacred place
Stay on designated routes and overlooks. Composition begins with where you’re allowed to stand.
No staging or contact. Do not move objects, lean gear on walls, or touch any surface.
Use reach, not shortcuts. Longer lenses and thoughtful framing replace proximity.
Let the light lead. Work with time of day and weather instead of entering sensitive areas.
Share what you learn. Pair images with captions that model respectful practices.
Simple visitor habits that protect the park
Follow all closures and ranger guidance.
Keep packs and tripods clear of structures and fragile edges.
Pack out everything; leave what you find.
Speak up—kindly—when you see unsafe or disrespectful behavior.
Art as stewardship
Fine art can deepen connection—and connection inspires care. Each piece we create from Mesa Verde aims to honor the subject and the communities who hold it dear. When art supports conservation, images become invitations to protect.
Watch the Behind-the-Lens video
Experience the field notes and visuals from this visit:
Join our conservation efforts
Fine Art Prints are available at https://www.doreenmcgunagle.com/, and a portion of all proceeds supports Global Voices for Nature Foundation Inc. Come be part of our conservation efforts—for our precious wildlife and our national treasures.