Now one of the top 25 shows in the nation, mark your calendars for the 8th Annual Affordable Arts Festival on August 25th at the Arapahoe Community College in Littleton. Valuable art from over 160 artists from over 20 states will be specially priced at $100 or less for this one day. Not only will…
Artists of of Crestone, Colorado, the mountain and retreat community, invite you to experience art at its best and the natural world at its most awe inspiring. Twenty-one artists will welcome art lovers into the spaces where they create paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture, immersive installations, quilts, weavings, woodworking, stained glass, painted silk and more. Their…
Lisa Call stitches together geometric “paintings” with dyed fabrics and thread. Inspired by cities, homes, and the southwest landscape, the abstract shapes she employs belie the fastidious detail and layers of color woven into each piece. Thu, Sat noon-5 p.m.; Fri noon-9 p.m.; Sun 1-4 p.m. Visit lisacall.com.
Ask any native Coloradan what she misses most when she leaves her home state, and you’re likely to hear (apart from the mountains) that she longs for Colorado’s clear skies. Denver native Laura Guese’s body of work is a veritable homage to that bluebird expanse we’re so fond of. Her sponge-like, topographic paintings will take…
This biennial clay arts exhibit celebrates many iterations of a 27,000-year-old tradition of working with clay. You may remember the show as Colorado Clay; the name was changed this year to be inclusive of artists from around the region. The The 39 masterpieces-made-from-mud, created by by 23 different artists, will be on display for about…
Celebrate spring by discovering an emerging local artist: Denver's own Adam Buehler, a graduate student in architecture at University of Colorado Denver. Buehler's canvases burst with color, light, and movement—embodying the optimism of the season and showcasing a talent that belies the artist's age. To top off the evening, attendees of the opening can toast…
The work of renowned anatomy sculptor Louise Bourgeois will be joined by artistic creations of Ruth Bernhard, Linda Fleming, Jae Koe, and several others in this multi-medium exhibit showcasing boundary-pushing artists. Works will vary in time period from 1947 to present day, but are tied together by their cultural influence. Tue-Fri 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat…
"Green architecture" takes on a whole new meaning at this springtime design event, featuring architects and designers from 14 of Denver's most groundbreaking firms. As spectators treat themselves to cocktails, flower-themed small bites, and craft beer from Renegade Brewing, the creative teams get the chance to exhibit their most extraordinary floral-based creations. From 3-D printed…
Pueblo, a historic town due south of Colorado Springs, and its natural surroundings have inspired many an artist over the last century and a half. This spring, the work of 40 Pueblo artists will be showcased in the Colorado State Capitol Rotunda, the Lieutenant Governor’s office, and the Joint Budget Committee Room. Artists featured include…
Seven artists from Denver, the East Coast, and Sweden will offer their (abstract) takes on the natural world in this group exhibit. Enjoy the dramatic juxtaposition of purposefully placed crude smears and realistic depictions that Peter Roux employs in his renditions of natural vistas and Denver local John Haley's sculpture of abstracted natural forms, which…
Thousands of people choose to move to Denver each year—but some are forced to relocate to the Mile High City. Photographer Angela Buckley has long documented the lives of Burmese refugees who fled from one dramatic mountain landscape to another. See her images and learn about the culture and customs of Burmese families who have…
Scoop up a local masterpiece, like a dreamy city or mountainscape by local painter Alex Artista or one of Amanda Vela's vibrantly detailed animal drawings, or view the latest spring fashions from Denver-based ethical fashion company Tribe at this benefit for Dry Bones Denver and Mission Wear. The event themed around Colorado creators will include…
Pop culture aficionados, art lovers, foodies, and hardcore Star Wars fans will unite at a local art gallery for an intergalactic celebration. At this Comic Con–esque evening, fans new and old can deck themselves in themed costumes, throw back signature cocktails (choosing between the Dark Side or the Rebel Alliance, of course) and, best of…
Modern artist Blair Bogin explores birthday ritual with her documentary-based performance art, which infuses chortle-at-the-awkwardness humor into highbrow topics. Catch her performance created in a residency with PlatteForum’s ArtLab Thursday at 7 p.m. Remnants from the production will be on display at PlatteForum through May 19; Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit blairbogin.com.
Get excited for summer storm season with this exhibit featuring four local photographers' shots of Colorado’s extreme weather. David Mayhew’s and Caryn Hill’s dramatic skies complement Eric Treece’s apocalyptic tornado and lightning shots, while Roger Hill’s photos that balance natural terrain with cloudscape will put any viewer at ease. The show is a collaboration with…
Innovative landscape photography by more than 50 artists from around the globe has been chosen by juror Natasha Egan, the executive director of the Museum of Contemporary Photography at Columbia College Chicago, for this sprawling photography exhibit. Make sure to find Richard Giles’ hauntingly lonely image of a derelict structure in wide-open plains, Carolyn Doucette’s…
Take a trip to consider humanity's reliance on technology during the opening of Canadian-Swiss media artist Jamie Allen’s first Colorado exhibition. Allen’s reimaginings of common items like laptops and typewriters aim to expose how technology dictates our desires. Allen’s work will appear alongside three works from Pablo Picasso’s 1969 lithographic series, Imaginary Portraits, that share…
Peruse the creations of local sculptors John Haley, Jack Middleton, and Mike Wright this Mother’s Day weekend. Each of the three artists in the one-day show employs rudimentary shapes to communicate an aesthetic message, be it simple and striking forms, patterns in nature, or bug-like creatures. Sat 2-6 p.m.
Painter Ken Elliott employs the full spectrum of color to highlight the elements he finds most striking in natural scenes. A magenta-hued mountainscape, for instance, is lined by a sliver of bright green and warm yellow, indicating a receding sun over the western horizon. See his unique interpretation of wild spaces in this solo show.…
Joyce Coco builds thick layers of color, using both bright and dark hues against a light, earthy backdrop to please the eye. Her resulting abstract works depict recognizable forms: a paint-smattered windshield, a goat, a desk lamp. Her work will be complemented by Madeleine Dodge’s colorful and geometric wall hangings. Thu, Sat noon-5 p.m.; Fri…
At this weeklong symposium, attendees have a choice between a dip or a dive into the world of contemporary art. The most promising minds in contemporary art come together for a host of activities, many of them free to the public, like the Crowdsourced Intelligence Agency exhibit by New York-based installation artists Derek Curry and…
Each of the five Denver-based artists in this new show employs geometric shapes, muted tones accented with pops of birght color, and plenty of negative space in their paintings or sculptures. Enjoy the deconstructed, soft-hued forms of abstract painter Frank T. Martinez and dreamy etchings of floating cubes by contemporary artist Steven Baris. Wed-Fri 11…
James Bohling's acrylic paintings depict Southwestern landscapes in all their vivid glory, while Cyncie Winter’s abstract paintings evoke a sense of form and growth through her expansive use of light. The two have collaborated to create works around the concept of achieving a sense of calm. Thu-Fri 1-4 p.m.; Sat noon-4 p.m. Visit jamesbohling.com and…
This community tradition that celebrates local artists kicks off its season with a lineup chock full of vendors, musical performances, and activities. Enjoy the beer and wine garden from the Post Brewing Co., Art on the Street sculptures, children’s activity booth (with face painting and a magic show), and fine wares like paintings and jewelry…
While Kathleen Krucoff bends metal into delicate necklaces and earrings that evoke natural forms, Jo Gaston creates idyllic scenes of country ranches and gardens (which she recalls from her childhood) with watercolors. The two Black Forest residents share gallery space for this new exhibit, allowing their vastly different mediums exploring the same similar subject matter…
Come to this evening fund-raiser for the mouthwatering eats by Central Bistro and Bar’s chef Jesse Vega; stay for the striking black and white works by artist Yesika Felix. Bid in the silent auction for an opportunity to take home one of Felix's images, which depict contrasting textures like bark and skin. Thu 6-8 p.m.
Whether you’re an amateur shutterbug or a seasoned Henri Cartier-Bresson, you'll learn new skills at this workshop. Globe-trotting photographer George Jardine will explain the differences between Lightbox and Photoshop, and how to integrate the two for maximum benefit. Sat 9-11 a.m.
Underprivileged youth in Five Points have created an exhibit that reflects social issues relating to their lives and communities; celebrate art and join the dialogue at this opening exhibit. Through one-on-one pairings with artist mentors such as Robert Bell and Courtney Charles, students from Whittier International Elementary School and Manual High School designed the social…
Denver's already known for its public art (we're looking at you, glob of kidney beans otherwise known as "National Velvet"), but Breckenridge is the first city in the Centennial State to host a festival devoted to public art. Six artists have created pieces themed around light, water, and sound, including "The Pool" (pictured), Boulder-based sculptor…
Festoon thyself with flowers: This vivacious celebration of art (and life) is about to get colorful. The spirit of the great Mexican painter Frida Kahlo guides the aesthetic of the exhibit, starting with the opening night party. Costumes are not required, but guests are encouraged to embody Kahlo in their attire—with or without a faux…
In this innovative exhibit, Martha Hughes simplifies images of houses, gardens, and pools, often employed as symbols of wealth and opulence in popular culture, to their barest colors and shapes. Her vivid, angular paintings create an illusion of vacuous spaces cut awkwardly by walls and corners, mimicking the momentary disorientation one often feels in new…
In this new show of oil paintings, artist Sharon Bond Brown displays black-and-white portraits from her long-running series "Creators" alongside her colorful "Damage" paintings of alleged murderers and other criminals. While her "Creators" pieces communicate vivacity despite their grayscale palette, Brown's 22-by-20-inch "Damage" images are done in color—even though they're based off black-and-white mug shots.…
Kick off the summer arts festival season with this family-friendly fair. Your tykes will enjoy carnival games and a participatory Art in the Park painting session while Mom and Dad can peruse Fine Art Avenue, a row of booths displaying the works of 81 local and regional artists of all media—from fiber and ceramics to…
This summer exhibition celebrates the medium of watercolor with a collection of pieces from artists across the western United States. The Western Federation of Watercolor Societies will exhibit 130 pieces from 12 regional watercolor societies, while an accompanying display from the Colorado Watercolor Society will feature work from 65 Colorado watercolor artists, including Tanis Bula,…
Enjoy the beauty and diversity of natural and man-made landscapes alike with this group exhibition. More than 40 local, national, and international artists, including Michelle Condrat and Derek Harrison, will show off styles ranging from realism to abstrat expressionism at two different times (check out the first opening on June 10 and the second on…
A "contemporary Western" almost seems like a paradox, but that's exactly what Detroit-based artist Jon Geiger has created in this traveling pop-up exhibit. Curious art-lovers can attend the opening night fete to catch a first glimpse of Geiger's neon tumbleweed, a flickering icon of the New West. Challenging and expanding upon traditional ideas of Americana,…
Calling all men: You've (finally) got an excuse to oil up your beard, throw on your best flannel, and dust off your favorite whiskey glass. Featuring more than 60 art vendors selling crafts made with men in mind, including the Famous Beard Oil Company, Bighorn Apparel, and Quiet Leather Works, this man-tastic fair offers everything…
Focusing on composition and form rather than hue, this group exhibit explores the absence of color by showcasing works in black, white, and various shades of gray. The display of paintings and drawings will be hung on a combination of black and gray walls to heighten the drama of the monochromatic works. Don't miss Barbara…
There’s one hanging in almost every home: the poorly posed, overly matchy, probably cross-eyed awkward family photo. Now Mike Bender and Doug Chernack, who first shared their personal collection of uncomfortable snapshots on their aptly titled website, awkwardfamilyphotos.com, are bringing more than 200 peculiar portraits—complete with “behind the awkwardness” stories from the families pictured—to Denver.…
Colorado is known for its vast and awe-inspiring wilderness, a landscape that includes a myriad of furry and feathered creatures. This group exhibit honors the untamable wildlife of the Centennial State and the American West, featuring seven artists with varying mediums, styles, and interpretations of “the wild” that reflect on the unpredictability of nature. Anchor…
Thanks to Ian Fisher, finding shapes in the sky isn't just a children's game. This much-anticipated solo exhibition features 10 paintings depicting expressive cloudscapes, the artist's signature subject matter, in a unified palette of deep midnight blues and grays. The dichotomy of light and dark hues alludes to the cyclical quality of nature and the…
By blending the organic body with the digital world, Denver-based artist Lui Ferreyra's signature, fragmented style challenges the traditional bounds of oil painting as a medium. At this innovative exhibition, glimpse Ferreyra's newest works alongside selections from complimentary artists such as Roger Reutimann, whose fiberglass nudes function as the 3-D counterpart to Ferreyra's work. Tue-Fri…
In this group exhibition featuring 31 local, national, and international artists, realism mingles with abstraction and surrealism. Benjamin Garcia’s take on reality is a deconstructed mix of blurry and distorted faces and bodies, whereas Britt Snyder’s paintings depict realist scenes through a hazy, almost impressionistic lens, creating the perspective of looking through glass or water.…
Explore the intricacies of lineage and identity at this meditative exhibit, which features portraits by Denver-based photographer Thomas “Detour” Evans. By juxtaposing scenes of modern American life with traditional African masks and art, Evans brings viewers to the crossroads of family histories. The project, which is both a statement of pride and a lament for…
Argentinian artist Guido Ignatti is making his American debut with this contemporary solo exhibition. Ignatti’s tapiados—the Spanish term for structures that create a blockage—combine painted wood and electrical lighting to convey a sense of obstruction and incite curiosity about what might exist on the other side of the barrier. The works evoke urban landscapes and…
In Argentine artist Guido Ignatti's first state-side solo exhibit, abstract paintings will give way to modified plants, which will transition to larger-than-life sculptures and finally to a mural of poetry and political graffiti. The diverse installations are intended to let gallery-goers reflect on the wide range of emotions, from loneliness to pleasure, that art can…
This lively outdoor festival features 250 national and international artists, including 26 from Colorado, working in 13 mediums. Be sure to check out five featured emerging artists, including Scott "Mr. Christmas" Hildebrandt, who creates complex whimsical sculptures from salvaged materials. Festival-goers can also enjoy the best of culinary and performing arts by visiting food booths…
Thanks to this brand-new mountain drive-in, your summer movie nights just got a little more retro. During the opening weekend for this 30-foot-wide boutique theater, you can park your car and tune in your FM radio to catch screenings of classic films, including Raiders of the Lost Ark, the Goonies, and a special sing-a-long version…
Enjoy the best of visual, performing and musical arts during this three-day celebration of African-inspired art and culture. In the sculpture garden and along “Visual Arts Avenue,” you'll find paintings, etchings, and photography by elite and emerging black artists. Then you can catch the Hendersons Band giving a soulful performance to match the weekend theme…
Knitting and crochet aren't the only way to make beautiful woven pieces—this group exhibition features 11 artists who each have their own take on creating masterpieces out of fibers and textiles. Deidre Adams’ colorful stitched textiles almost look like paintings, while Thomas Lundberg’s embroideries are full of texture that creates a unique three-dimensional effect. After…
This colorful live performance will give spectators a glimpse into the studio process of Denver-based painter Laura Krudener. Watch as her literal kinetic movements translate into two-dimensional aesthetic drama in her paintings. As viewers look on, the artist will pour and layer paint on a canvas to create one of her signature large-scale works, each…
Technology may have changed the art world, but this juried exhibition proves that the age-old skill of drawing isn’t going anywhere—in fact, it’s evolving. The display features drawing of every type, from traditional graphite on paper to images drawn in the earth to three-dimensional drawings in space. Peruse the gallery to see the nature-inspired works…
At this opening ceremony, three new exhibitions will be unveiled: Adam Pendleton’s mixed media show Becoming Imperceptible, Guido Ignatti’s installation exhibition Setup, and Molly Bounds’ Critical Focus, which features unconventional body drawings. After you admire each artist's unique medium, enjoy mixes from DJs John Tyler and Maya Amack and snack on bites from Phenomenal Falafel…
At this intimate exhibit, explore the intersection of two genres of art that might seem to be mutually exclusive: expressionism and realism. Colorado-based painter Jeffrey Harrison possesses a style that is at once emotive and camera-like, subjective and objective. What results from Harrison’s holistic evaluations is something akin to portraits of his subjects' identities. Tue-Sat…
This six-artist exhibit explores artistic creations that achieve depth without complexity. For instance, Melissa Borrell’s works will immerse you in a shifting landscape of angles and hues with elemental use of light and color, while Patricia Finley’s clean, elegant lines are painted on colorless canvases. Tue-Sat 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
At this whimsical exhibit, the world of Dr. Seuss leaps straight off the pages into real life. Featuring 17 taxidermy wall sculptures crafted by the author himself in the 1930s, the display showcases creatures of all shapes and sizes—from the blue-hued carbonic walrus to the ram-like goo-goo-eyed Tasmanian wolghast—that toe the line between real and…
For half a century, the arts haven tucked into the Roaring Fork Valley (close to Aspen and Snowmass) has supported nationally and internationally recognized artists through residencies and other programs. The week-long celebration of the ranch’s anniversary, then, is perhaps not long enough. The schedule is stacked with artist lectures, celebrations, and exhibits, but we…
Colorado sculptor Sara Ransford assembles delicate pieces of paper clay, creating forms reminiscent of natural shapes: sedimentary deposits in rock formations, the spongey, stringy flesh of bark, the pods of a seed. Her work, in abstract form, evokes a sense of time and erosion inherent to both the natural and man-made worlds. Tue-Sat 11 a.m.-6…
Think of this installation as a work of artistic synesthesia. During the interactive sense-blending exhibition, Colorado artist Jonathan Mason pairs seven musical notes with seven different colors, so guests can choose a combination of hues to produce their own melodies. Up to seven viewers at a time can experiment with the shades to create their…
Lose yourself in towering works of art during this larger-than-life exhibition. This unique show, which highlights 25 of the gallery's featured artists, gives painters the chance to leave average-sized canvases behind and create giant masterpieces. Landscape artist David Grossmann recreates the immersive experience of walking through a forest in his 30-by-50-inch painting "Autumn Color Patterns,"…
Vincent Xeus has created large portraits by ladling colorful blobs of paint on planks of wood before. Ron Hicks has created haunting images based on historical events, and Daniel Keys has painted still lifes and farm scenes with a life-like sense of motion. But none has ever completed such works on so grand a scale.…
Both fine art and wine will be demystified during this gala held by one of Denver’s most acclaimed contemporary art galleries. You’ll glimpse masterpieces from start-to-finish as local artists Jessi West Lundeen and Greg Dye, both known for their vivid lanscapes, paint live. Meanwhile, sommelier Greg Thomas will lead attendees through a tasting of international…
At this experimental exhibit, three local artists come together to create unity out of their different styles. Abstract fiber artist Karen Bennett uses deconstructed screen prints and embroidery to explore mythical tales, whereas quilter Keats Scott draws inspiration from Colorado mountains to craft quilts that portray landscapes and village scenes. Like Scott, painter Mary Clark…
Mark Andrew Bailey is known for his expertly lit impressionist scenes; Kristy Gordon has drawn acclaim for her life-like portraits with surreal backdrops; and Robert Spooner employs Pollock-like chaos in his vivid street scenes. But what else might they like to create? See what these and seven other artists produced for this group show when…
Show your support for cancer survivors at this community-focused painting party. Add to one of five hand-painted murals, which depict a variety of subjects, including American flags and forest scenes. The masterpieces will be hung in SCL Health facilities throughout the Denver area to provide encouragement for cancer patients and their families. While you're there,…
In a world where many curate (seemingly) perfect lives for social media, Colorado artist Matthew Harris is questioning how social status is truly gained. His demonic ceramic busts (which we think call to mind the noble outcast hunchback Quasimodo) are meant to pose the question: How do wisdom, compassion, and humility stack up against wealth,…
Get a breath of fresh air with this day-trip-worthy festival in stunning Keystone. Admission is free, but the works for sale are high-end. Whether you're out to decorate your LoDo penthouse or just enjoy the stroll-worthy setting, be sure to admire the striking paintings (like Steve Ward's vivid abstract works), eye-catching sculptures, and local crafts.…
Get your weekly dose of culture at this festive street party celebrating the kickoff of the Colfax Open Air Art Gallery Project. Peruse booths from art vendors such as Surj Artwork and Studio Colfax while enjoying the jazzy musical stylings of the Bada Boom Big Brass Band. You can also witness art in the making…
Thanks to this thought-provoking exhibition, you'll dive into a discussion about current events. Thirteen high school students teamed up with Denver artists Taylor Balkissoon and John Lake to explore social issues, such as gentrification and homelessness, in their creative works. From zines to multimedia pieces to large-scale photography, the students contributed their own perspectives and…
At this collaborative, conceptual fashion show, local designers Cyrus and Keenan Ferguson will showcase their original pieces. Denver musician Jason Corder, better known by his stage name Off the Sky, will spin moody electroacoustic tracks as models show off their minimalist looks, which have been crafted from hand-painted fabrics made by artists at RedLine's Reach…
Archetypal figures, such as the hero and the villain, are the focus of this inventive group exhibition. In this display, nine emerging artists reimagine these classic characters in their paintings, sculptures, and video installations. Peruse the gallery to view collaborative projects such as "Tea Cup Teddy," a stuffed bear–shaped sculpture made from broken china, and…
To honor the Americans who lost their lives during World War II, retired fighter pilot Fredric Arnold created this moving exhibit. As a memorial, the 94-year-old carved 12 life-size bronze sculptures resembling the fallen men in his former squadron, all of which will be on display. While you admire the large-scale works, be sure to…
Longmont-based painter Sophy Brown re-envisions the Wild West in this equine-centered exhibition. With her acrylic tableaus, Brown focuses in on the visceral emotions of horses and riders on the modern frontier. Browse these captivating portraits for an intimate look at the culture and landscape of Western America. Tue-Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m. —Photo courtesy of Evergreen…
In this group exhibition, four Colorado artists examine the architectural forms of the spaces in which we live and work. Rick Dula's paintings explore scenes of industrial decay and reveal his fascination with the corrosion of metal, while painter Sarah McKenzie focuses her eye on the light and lines of temporary spaces, such as hotel…
Presented by Black Cube Art, this contemporary art installation explores themes of landscape, migration and tourism in the historic mining town of Gold Hill. The outdoor exhibition, installed in the authentic mining cabins and gardens dotting the town, features sculpture, mixed media, and photography by Molly Berger, Jennifer Ling Datchuk, and Eric Stewart. The site…
By checking out this gallery show, you'll be doing your civic duty. In this exhibit, local artists create their own fictional campaigns using print and paper-based art to represent social and political issues important to the Denver art community. Accompanying the salon-style exhibition will be an “election” in which patrons can vote for their four…
Inspired by a traumatic brain injury that pulled her back to art, Denver-based painter Gabrielle Shannon is fascinated by the concept of the in-between. Using a combination of fluid acrylics and pastels, her colorful, swirling tableaus relay the chaos and ambiguity of an out-of-body experience as she attempts to capture a visual representation of dynamic…
To create her unique "dark-room aesthetic," former photographer Heidi Jung uses light and movement to create drawings that conjure up the atmosphere of a photograph. Nature is one of Jung’s constant subjects, and her images regularly depict greenery and insects. This particular exhibition features ink and charcoal works inspired by edible plants in Jung’s own…
In this exhibit of portraits, Denver-based artist Adrienne Norris showcases pioneering female role models. She combines watercolor paintings with newspaper clippings and old photos to create unique collages that depict influential women within the context of the eras they lived in. As you browse the gallery, reflect on the lives of these women, including Shirley…
Local creations take center stage at this community-driven art and music festival—and yours could steal the spotlight. Attendees are invited to submit their own masterpieces to the art show on the day of the event, during which artists will showcase a variety of genres, including paintings, sculpture, and photography as well as tattooing and welding.…
Escape from the bustling city by walking through this exhibition. Though they often work with urban subjects, these two expressionists will turn to elements in nature as their inspiration for this abstract mixed media exhibit. Tracey Russell’s works focus on lines, marks, movement, and rhythm, while Suzanne Kramer incorporates bold shapes and colors into her…
Janice McDonald’s abstract collage pieces are made from scraps of paper she comes across in her everyday life, including bits of magazines, newspapers, and junk mail. This exhibition takes the concept of recycled art one step further as McDonald turns to used consumer packaging as her canvas. From flattened shipping crates to soap packages to…
This kaleidoscopic show will focus on vibrantly colored artwork in a wide variety of genres. Check out University of Colorado graduate Dylan Gebbia-Richards' hanging installations and colorful abstract blocks from Santa Fe-based sculptor Greg Joubert. Then consider the juxtaposition between bright colors and shabby structures in Georgia-based painter William Mize’s depictions of houses. Tue-Sat 11…
Featuring the works of Oscar Bluemner, Charles Burchfield, Stuart Davis, John Marin, and Charles Sheeler, this exhibition explores the emergence of modernism during the first half of the twentieth century. The show houses 18 works on paper that showcase the diversity of the early modernist movement. While Burchfield's watercolor landscapes combine defined objects and structures…
In this exhibit, Native-American painter Frank Buffalo Hyde examines contemporary stereotypes of indigenous peoples. The paintings, which are done in Buffalo Hyde's trademark pop art style, investigate the discrepancies that exist between the ways natives are understood and portrayed in today's popular culture and within their own Native cultures. Visitors to the gallery will find…
This juried exhibition features works from 75 member artists of the International Guild of Realism, which currently has more than 375 members from 35 different countries. The display strives to show the diversity of realist work, highlighting artists specializing in a range of styles including photorealism, magic realism, and contemporary realism. David Eichenberg's detailed portraits…
These two Soviet bloc–born artists are internationally recognized for their distinctive contemporary styles and bold, striking colors. In this exhibit, they turn their attention to the beauty of cityscapes. Denver-based contemporary artist Lyudmila Agrich swaps paintbrush for palette knife to create more vibrant impressionist pieces. Larisa Aukon, who studied art in Latvia and is now…
Colorado Springs multimedia artist Evan Mann's installations and videos combine a monochromatic palette with formal structures that echo objects such as clouds and bones. Inspired by cosmic forms and biological architecture, this retrospective solo exhibition features a diverse display of videos, installations, and set pieces from previous film projects. Be sure to stick around after…
This multifaceted exhibit will showcase the work of three very different, but equally unconventional artists, all of whom are considered groundbreaking within the contemporary art scene. Discover Michigan painter Felicia Forte’s vividly colored depictions of everyday objects, such as sandwiches and televisions, which provide an intriguing contrast to Lindsey Kustusch’s dour paintings of gritty, lived-in…
If hearing "Pueblo" makes you think of steel rather than art, maybe this showcase of the city's burgeoning creative corridor will leave you with a pleasant new impression. Don’t miss the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center’s exhibition of John Suhay photographs, which depict everyday life in contemporary Pueblo, or new watercolor and acrylic works from…
At a time when flaws in the criminal justice system are becoming more and more apparent, this visceral photography exhibition provides a stark look at American juvenile corrections. California-based photographer Richard Ross documents the treatment of youth in prisons across the country, while Zora Murff is inspired by his experience working as a tracker for…
Creating art often takes careful planning and preparation, but this diverse group exhibition is all about impulse. Using a minimal color palette, six artists from around the world explore the role of spontaneity in their own personal processes. Stone-carver Vanessa Clarke allows her material to guide her, watching the stone naturally transform with each cut,…
Celebrate the places that make Colorado so colorful at this exhibition of Drew Sarka's seasonal landscapes. Each of the 20 works on display was inspired by the Aurora-based doctor's travels across the state. After you browse through his oil paintings, listen to the artist give a talk about his creative process and enjoy an acoustic…
Paris might be the fashion capitol of the world today, but French fashionistas once took their inspiration from Japan. This historical exhibition features works by six prominent Japanese designers and celebrates the style revolution they started in Paris during the 1980s. Issey Miyake’s designs incorporate an inventive approach to pleating, while Yohji Yamamoto showcases avant-garde…
At this unconventional exhibition of paintings, Denver artist Sierra Barela will showcase a collection of images that juxtapose innocent subjects—such as Disney princesses and dolphins—and more adult themes. Her works, which are reminiscent of collages, are intriguing not only because they contain peculiar combinations of images, but also because she uses a wide variety of…
Building on one of his previous bodies of work in which adult magazine covers were cut and inlaid together, Aspen-based artist Robert Brinker's latest solo exhibition features large-scale cut paper dragons. The reptilian representations are crafted from the scanned collages, which were then pared down to the shape of the scaly mythical creatures, some as…
At this philanthropic celebration of the Centennial State, enjoy a show by Boulder-based bluegrass band Mayhem Gulch and savor a brew from Avery Brewing Company. Patty Limerick, co-founder of the Center of the American West, will speak about the critically dynamic relationship between our state’s growing population and the preservation of its cultural and natural…
Celebrate the grand re-opening of one of Denver's preeminent arts spaces with two new exhibits. Photographer Rich Clarkson's portraits of iconic athletes, including Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller, are the highlights of his sports-focused exhibition while a variety of local artists, including designer Rick Griffith and installation artist Rebecca Vaughan, will show off their cycling-themed…
Shift your view from a skyline of cranes and new development projects and glimpse a vestige of the Mile High City's past at this Black Cube pop-up art installation. Created by Sangree, an artistic collaboration between Mexico City artists René Godínez Pozas and Carlos Lara, the installation includes glass cubes that function as an above-ground…
Experience four decades of the Arvada Center’s most popular exhibitions, as well as works from new artists, at this anniversary retrospective. In the "Looking Back" gallery, don't miss Denver painter Sushe Felix’s Southwestern landscape acrylics and Trine Bullimer’s oil paintings of nature. Then discover Boulder-based contemporary artist Dylan Gebbia-Richards' intensely colorful encaustic wax works in…
This heady exhibition examines the still-evolving legacy of Drop City, the nation's first countercultural art commune, which took root near Trinidad in 1965. In this show curated by Los Angeles-based writer Jan Tumlir, glimpse paintings by the commune's founder, Clark Richert, alongside works by younger artists who have been inspired by the Drop City legacy,…
Books aren’t just literary works of art—their pages can become canvases, collages, and even sculptures. This bibliophilic group exhibition features 50 works from international artists highlighting the diversity of the book arts genre. Featured artist Karen Hardy, the recipient of the 2015 Abecedarian Gallery Director’s Exhibition Award, channels a curiosity about materials into her works,…
Bid on experimental masterpieces at this silent auction featuring more than 110 contemporary artworks by local, national and international artists. The diverse mix of compositions will include pieces from several Front Range artists, such as Scott Young's neon signage photograph "Wish You Were Here" and Xochi Solis’ abstract painting “We Were Meant to be Side…
Instead of visiting a gallery, experience art on the street during this community-focused event. Drop by during the two-day festival—which features street artists from across the country and around the world—to watch as sweeping graffiti creations and inventive street sculptures are made right before your eyes. Gamma’s large-scale spray-painted street murals are known for their…
John Buck’s kinetic wooden sculptures are unique whirring structures that stand up to 20 feet tall. In this solo exhibition he uses his peculiar medium of choice to address American politics and the unconventional drama of the 2016 presidential campaign. The gallery show includes wall relief panels, bronze sculptures, and large-scale paper works that express…
When you hear "mammal," you might think of dogs or chimpanzees—but this class of warm-bloodied animals is quite a bit more varied. With more than 5,000 species of creatures, including unfamiliar ones such as scaly pangolins and egg-laying echidnas, there’s more to Mammalia than what you'd find in a zoo. This large-scale exhibition celebrates the…
Discover and compare unique approaches to perspective and composition at this exhibition featuring three aesthetically distinct contemporary artists. Check out Anna Charney’s abstract digital environments, which she makes by airbrushing and stenciling, before you contemplate Adam Vinson’s tricky still-life works, which often look like mixed media pieces but are actually oil paintings. Then don't miss…
Painter Richard Schmid, one of the most well-known contemporary American realists will showcase decades of his work at this exhibit. The show will include new paintings as well as several older works from private collections that haven't been shown to the public in many years. Don’t miss his impressionistic, expertly lit landscapes or "Nancy &…
Supersize your screentime at this digital animation festival, which will be displaying motion-art pieces from around the world on three different screens. Short form digital media experts and guest jurors Claudia Maté, Jonathan Monaghan, and Morehshin Allahyari will be awarding cash prizes to the most impressive creations. Don't miss British graphic designer Keiichi Matsuda's Hyper-reality,…
During this unique talk, offbeat artist Stuart Semple will reveal his creative process, his influences, and his take on the global art experience. Semple, who lives in Dorset, England, creates thought-provoking works in a variety of media, including film, sculpture, painting, installation, and grafitti. During this talk, he'll uncover his signature method of repurposing pop…
This stunning exhibit features works from 26 artists, all of whom explore their perceptions of Colorado's ever-changing landscapes. Attendees can peruse pieces in a wide variety of media, including works from midcentury photographer Robert Adams and modern photographer James Balog as well as paintings by Max Beckmann, a German expressionist who briefly lived in Boulder…
Denver artist Lisa Corine von Koch reimagines the desert landscape in her native southern Utah in this colorful exhibit. Inspired by Moab’s vivid desert landscapes and her other travel destinations, each of her chromatically saturated paintings evokes a sense of heightened experience that mimics the feelings one might have during an adrenaline high. The vivid…
At this massive showcase of fifteenth- and sixteenth-century paintings, familiarize yourself with the distinct style of Venetian Renaissance artists. The exhibit includes 50 works from this experimental period, during which artists began using oil paint to add greater depth and emotion to their art. See these revolutionary techniques up close in intimate interpretations of Biblical…
Glimpse some of the West’s most majestic creatures without having to leave Evergreen at this exhibition of nearly 20 animal paintings by Golden painter Edward Aldrich. Aldrich realistically renders the creatures using subtle brush strokes that skillfully capture dramatic details. Each painting presents a candid wilderness encounter with wolves, buffalo, or other wild beasts in…
At this dark, contemporary exhibition, glimpse 32 unsettling pieces focused on themes such as mortality, the afterlife, and our perceptions of reality. Artists featured in the exhibit, such as Katie Hoffman and James Leger, work in a wide variety of media—from oil paintings to ink drawings to wood carvings—but all seem to find a surprising…
For her solo exhibition of large-scale panels, contemporary painter Patricia Aaron drew inspiration from her experiences during a month-long artist residency in Reykjavik with the Association of Icelandic Visual Artists. Check out her sublime depictions of Icelandic volcanic rock, arctic glaciers, and icebergs—each of which was made with a combination of encaustic, ink, and mixed…
This vibrant show featuring abstract female artists from the Centennial State aims to give women in the art world some of the recognition that has historically been denied to them. Check out on On Ice, Patricia Aaron’s latest series of encaustic paintings, which feature abstract depictions of the painter's favorite places and memories from a…
At this opening celebration, admire both visual and sound-based works of art. Start your evening at the rooftop party, during which you can hear a live performance by electronic band Pythian Whispers and check out a light projection installation by Denver artist Orchidz3ro. Then move inside to see a retrospective exhibit by Kim Dickey, band-themed…
At this unique art show, you can admire work by some of the best photographers in Colorado and walk away with a piece of your own. Attendees will have the opportunity to view all 50 pieces and engage with 10 featured photographers before drawing numbers to determine the order in which they'll get to select…
At this politically charged exhibition, New York-based artist Saya Woolfalk will share her insight on immigration. To consider the ways in which we reject and embrace foreignness in this country, she created a music-inspired installation using textiles from around the world to create a mosaic of images that represent pop songs from abroad that have…
Ponder the degree to which the media has erased a distinction between the urban and rural at this exhibition of films by Johan Grimonprez. The Belgian director uses his movies, which range from a feature to two three-minute shorts, to critique contemporary media sources. In his film Double Take, for example, Alfred Hitchcock meets an…
Part of the citywide Celebration! A History of the Visual Arts in Boulder event, this window display documents the history of key Boulder crafting organizations, such as the Lodestone Gallery and the Boulder Free School, through photographs, blown up newspaper articles, and a collection of artifacts including a weaving bloom and spinning wheel. Fabrics from…
In this uniquely immersive exhibition, artwork by Annalee Schorr will not only be on the walls but below your feet as the cubes, swirls, and distorted grids of her paintings, which are done on plexiglass, are complimented by a pattern covering the entire gallery floor made by Schorr with only duct tape. Be sure to…
Consider the possibilities of instinctual creativity at this exhibition featuring two Denver-based abstract painters whose work reflects their preoccupations with and reverence for the artistic process. Johnson explores the ever-changing nature of modern life through her paintings, which she creates by adding and then scraping off layers of paint in a symbolic representation of the…
Best known for his large-scale abstract expressionist paintings, Still distanced himself from contemporaries such as Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko with an extensive cache of more than 2,300 drawings. During this three-month exhibit, more than 260 of those works will be on display. Although you could spend all day staring at Still’s art, make sure…
For this unusual collaborative exhibition, photographers Barbara Ciurej and Lindsay Lochman have created panoramas of processed food that mirror the composition of Carlton Watkins’ landscapes of the American West. By reimagining breathtaking views using crushed cereal and white bread as a medium, the artists encourage viewers to question industrial food production in the United States.…
In his third solo exhibition, oil painter Gregory Block turns his artistic eye on the culinary world. His skillfully rendered still-life works capture the light, shadows, and textures of lavish place settings and meals, encouraging viewers to consider food and its role in their lives. In addition to his realistic renderings, check out unique metal…
Two midwestern photographers, Barbara Ciurej and Lindsay Lochman, team up in this exhibit to explore the most quintessentially American product: processed foods. Landscapes are made in miniature out of Fruit Loops, Coca-Cola, white bread, neon popsicles, deli meat, marshmallows, and other bits of unnatural grub. Rendered as otherworldly dreamscapes, the scenery depicted in the photographs…
This exhibition subverts the traditional experience of viewing art by putting the focus squarely on the stories behind the pieces. Each artwork will be accompanied by an explanation from the artist detailing some aspect of the piece’s inspiration, conceptualization or production. Discover how Janice Sugg’s painting Yellow Light Through the Water was inspired by the…
Artist couple James Surls and Charmaine Locke will use their art to explore their relationship with one another during this partner exhibition. Featuring large-scale sculptures, paintings, drawings, and prints that depict objects from nature as well as cosmic shapes, the shows highlights the complements and contrasts in their work. Fri 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Sat-Thu 10…
Instead of leaving their works up to interpretation, the artists featured in this group exhibition make their creative processes and intentions explicit. Each painting and sculpture is displayed alongside a plaque detailing the inspiration for each piece as well as the techniques used to create it. Discover the story behind Jeanne Bessette's colorful, whimsical paintings…
Classic artworks, local iconography, and popular culture collide in five immersive murals covering the walls of the elevator lobbies on each of The Curtis hotel’s five floors. Conceived and painted by Denver artist Forrest J. Morrison, the murals reference famous paintings like Hopper's Nighthawks and Rembrandt's The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp while including…
Regulars at coffeehouses such as Steam and Pablo's will likely recognize Kaitlin Zeismer's quirky paintings, which put unusual heads (like those of Star Wars characters), onto conventional human bodies. These pieces, done in a bright and showy style, owe their appeal to the contrasts they present between the fantastic and the mundane. Zeismer will be…
Though trained as a painter, artist Kim Putnam will present a collection of ceramic sculptures at this tactile show. By using cupcakes as stand-ins for breasts, her pastry-themed installation draws attention to the sexualization of the female form and questions the words we use to discuss female bodies. Thu, Sat noon-6 p.m.; Fri noon-9 p.m.;…
Directed by Peter Dearth, this new musical takes you on a whirlwind adventure of fact and fiction through the dark and tortured life of Edgar Allan Poe. Audiences will journey through a story about one of the world’s most famous--and deeply fascinating--writers of both the mysterious and macabre. Get lost in the show's distinctive operatic…
Denver interior designer Elaine St. Louis has channeled her unique eye for architecture and design into this exhibition of elegant nest paintings. Her large scale depictions of the natural structures against a warm, white background highlight both the intricacy and functionality of the tiny structures. Paired alongside rustic displays of furniture, her artwork allows viewers…
This colorful exhibition explores an unusual and unexpected vehicle for political expression—quilts. Often the only means women had to express their political views in the nineteenth century, quilt decoration has long been used to convey political stances. A quilt incorporating ballots with those incompletely-punched holes that became known as “hanging chads” casts the still-disputed 2000…
If you've ever dreamed of seeing your artwork displayed in the Denver Art Museum, here is your chance. In this workshop, artist Danette Montoya will help participants employ repousse metalworking techniques to decorate candles with motifs from the museum's Pre-Columbian and Spanish Colonial collection. The creations will then be temporarily displayed as part of Montoya's…
If you have trouble making sense of the images in this exhibition of 22 visual monoprints, then you have fulfilled printmaker Kim Morski’s intention. In this series of prints, Morski has purposefully obscured visual information in order to evoke the “blizzarding” tactics used by the U.S. government to stonewall public inquiry into classified information The…
Contemporary artists working in fiber art use the material to create conceptual 3D sculptures,, figurative bodies, and abstract forms in addition to the more conventional wearable art and tapestries. The many techniques used to manipulate and interpret fabric are showcased at this inventive exhibition, which will feature entries by artists from Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico,…
Using a wide variety of media—from stencil cartoons to 3D installations to photographs—students in the Arts Street youth art program created an exhibit of bike-centric works. Don’t miss an animation of a bicycle through the seasons or a new bike built by local shop White Rhino Customs and decorated by the students. Fri 5:30-10 p.m.…
Jim Stevens, an artist who became legally blind after suffering a gunshot wound to the head in combat, uses fishing line and acrylic paint to create striking black-and-white portraits of individuals he respects. This show will highlight a dozen of his most recent works, all of which he painstakingly produces by painting, stretching and arranging…
This thoughtful group exhibition examines the issue of gun violence in America. Featuring eight artists working across multiple mediums, the display interrogates contemporary views of gun violence by examining personal experiences, international relations, and the Black Lives Matter movement. Browse the gallery to view photographs, sculptures, and textile and ceramic works all offering different interpretations…
Abstract expressionist and representational artists have literally painted over each other’s work for this groundbreaking exhibit, which seeks to create understanding between two typically conflicting artistic schools. Denver artist Doug Kacena, who is known for the textural quality of his pieces as well as his skill with a palette knife, he painted over 12 pieces…
This photography exhibition, which documents an eccentric South Carolina man named Robert and his deep relationship to his Appalachian surroundings, is bound to resonate with residents of the Centennial State who feel an affiliation to their own land. Consisting of both portraits and landscape shots, the body of work seeks to explore the interconnectedness of…
Tennessee-based painter Mia Bergeron marries realism and abstraction in this new body of work exploring the theme of loneliness. In many of her pieces, Bergeron blurs the distinction between her photorealistic subjects and their backgrounds, disrupting our understanding of the subjects as individuals. This solo show—the artist's first in Denver—will also feature a selection of…
Artwork that presents intriguing contrasts is the focus of this inventive exhibition, which will showcase pieces from six Colorado artists. Mark Penner Howell’s richly colorful paintings mix imagery from myths and contemporary pop culture while Jonathan Hils’ wood and steel sculptures reflect upon the feeling of looking upward and outward. Don't miss mixed media collages…
During this tour, admire a collection of engaging installations and get some fresh air at the same time. Start at Greenwood Village's Marjorie Park, which is home to Wiedenblum, an 18-foot living willow sculpture as well as a series of bronze sculptures depicting scenes from Alice in Wonderland, then make your way to Fiddler's Green…
You might have to wait until next year to see Star Wars: Episode VIII in theaters, but you can geek out about your favorite galaxy far, far away very soon. At this fantastic exhibition, check out concept drawings, storyboards and more than 70 iconic costumes—including Vader's cape and Amidala's elaborate red gown—from all seven epic…
The epicurean-focused artworks in this foodie-friendly group exhibition will likely leave your mouth watering. With paintings ranging from culinary still lifes to abstracted kitchen scenes, the exhibit explores cooking-related themes through a contemporary lens. The show consists of paintings by gallery mainstays Kelly Berger, John K. Harrell, Kit Hevron, and Anita Mosher, each of whom…
Although abstract artists and representational ones don't seem to view the world in the same way, this two-part exhibition seeks to explore the techniques that painters in each school have in common. At this show, learn more about the history of each approach to better understand the intersections between the seemingly contrasting styles. Don't miss…
Contemplate exhistential ideas of life, death, and the passage of time at this group exhibition exploring the tension between the natural and man-made worlds. Jim Johnson's charcoal clouds reveal words and phrases intended to inspire contemplation, thus demonstrating their ephemeral nature. Vicki Lee Johnston's sculptures are made from barbed wire, which has historically been used…
Sometimes great art comes in small packages. Celebrate the Art Students League of Denver’s 30th anniversary at this exhibition of works that are all 30x30x30 centimeters wide and smaller. Members will contribute visual arts, such as paintings and drawings, as well as practical art pieces, such as jewelry and ceramics, for the exhibit. Mon-Thu 8…
Harken back to the days of cowboys and covered wagons while considering the stark contrast between myth and truth at this exhibition of 48 hand-colored engravings and lithographs from the 1800s. Learn more about artists like Fredric Remington, who promoted their work to generate support for westward expansion and the displacement of Native Americans amongst…
Thanks to this realistic exhibit, you'll start seeing vegetables as more than just food. Students from the Botanic Gardens' School of Botanic Art & Illustration will showcase their paintings and drawing of a wide variety of edible plants, including onions and eggplant as well as plants harvested for spices. At this juried show, the pieces…
Check out a range of evocative landscape paintings at this show honoring the natural world. Missouri-based artist Jeff Aeling's series of evening renditions of Colorado's South Park basin—which provide the perfect vantage point to appreciate the vastness of both the Rockies and the sky in motion above them, according to Aeling—anchors the exhibition. Former CU…
Browse handmade jewelry, abstract watercolors, intricate mosaics and more at this annual art show and sale. Check out handmade pieces from more than 100 local artists working in 14 different mediums, including printmaking, mixed media, ceramics, photography, pastels, and glass. Proceeds benefit the Arvada Center galleries in addition to the participating artists. Thu 10 a.m.-9…
Consider the at-once highly personal and distinctly universal concept of home in this photography exhibit examining many versions of domesticity in the modern world. The images run the gamut from serene displays of comfort and security to rougher views of life on society’s margins. Tue-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The Center for…
This latest series of works from figurative artist George Strasburger confronts notions of modern masculinity through depictions of various relationships. This exhibit will showcase Strasburger's trademark large-scale oil pieces alongside his figurative sketches and drawings, offering a lens into Strasburger's creative process and classical style. Sun-Sat 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
At this open-themed show, visitors can acquaint themselves with the works of 28 promising young photographers—talented artists, including Emma Sobel, Justin Alber, and Yong Chen, who have been tapped as standard-bearers and innovators of the photographic world. Chosen from a national pool of hundreds of submissions, the undergraduate and MFA students included in the show…
Discover the vibrant lives and cultures of northern New Mexico’s rural Hispanic communities at this exhibition of images from North Carolina-based photographer Alex Harris. Beginning in 1972, Harris spent 20 years living in New Mexico’s Sangre De Cristo mountains and documenting the customs of the area. These photos examine the integral role devotional religious objects,…
Learn about the ancient craft of glasswork at this hands-on workshop open to students as young as five-years-old. Expert glassblowers from The Furnace will help participants choose and apply a color to molten glass. Then, they'll shape that glass into an ornament just in time to trim the tree. Additional glass art will be available…
Celebrate the opening of outdoor gear retailer Evo's new Denver store by checking out Alchemy, a collection of images by Denver adventure photographer Ian Fohrman that will be shown in the store’s gallery space. The exhibit will consist of photos of mountain vistas, seascapes, and other scenic views taken from Fohrman’s travels, plus some ski,…
No matter how much you love art, there never seems to be enough time to make it to all the exhibitions around town. That’s why we love group shows like this one, which will feature pieces from each of the gallery’s 29 current member artists. While the fun comes in getting a taste of everything,…
Viewed together, the oil paintings of artists Greg Gandy, Jeremy Mann, and Timothy P. Wilson present a study of the continuum of realism to abstraction. Wilson's rich abstracted figures, Mann's cityscapes, and Gandy's hyperrealistic San Francisco street scenes give rise to a visual treat—a collection of paintings replete with lush colors and details. Tue-Sat 11.a.m.-6…
Add a little eccentricity to your holiday season at this non-traditional art show. Faith Williams’s nativity scene, made out of pieces of cut-up credit cards and Christmas ornaments inspired by Google searches (including one comparing the differences between dinosaur species), will infuse your holiday celebrations with idiosyncrasy. Susan Hazaleus’ unconventional electronic pieces, which include a…
Whether you’re looking for sculptures, jewelry, functional glassware, or something else entirely, you’ll likely find a worthy gift at this sale and showcase of delicate ceramic pieces by over 20 local artists. Donna and Gary Browning’s plates, which are decorated with drawings made by their granddaughters, will add color to your Christmas dinner table, while…
In January, Breckenridge’s International Snow Sculpture Championships will again attract snow artists from around the world, but you don’t have to wait until then to get a look at local artists’ cool creations. This year, Colorado carvers will host their own festival, the Colorado State Snow Sculpting Competition, just a month earlier as part of…
This group exhibition showcasing "mini bodies of work" will have you appreciating the smaller things in life. Louis Trujillo's black hanging pieces, which he fashions from clay and wire, provide a dark and moody take on themes of spirituality and the sublime; Brenda LaBiere's abstracted, close-up photos of unidentifiable objects are stark and striking; and…
With approximately 10,000 homeless individuals in Denver—60 percent of whom have no home to return to—homelessness in the city is at an all-time high. Artist and writer Sarah Gerard relies on multimedia resources in this exhibit to portray the true stories of Denver's homeless. Tackling the subject with the help of students from the Mi…
It’s your last chance to catch this pattern-filled show from influential Colorado artist Clark Richert, which is made up of a series of paintings of repeating visual forms and structures in extremely dense arrangements. While the paintings may initially seem to embody a level of mathematical exactitude, each work contains drips, smears, and strokes that…
"Sensory" is the mot du jour at this exhibit by jewelry designer and metalworker Lindsay Ernst. Her industrial creations—made from found objects, organic materials, and reflective stones—explore themes of futurity, nostalgia, and the natural world. On the show's opening night, DJ DNoe will spin tracks by Fort Collins–based electronic musician Moon Frog; RiNo Yacht Club…
These paintings depicting a diverse range of the world’s landscapes and cultures will have you feeling like you’ve traveled across the globe without having left the Centennial State. This one-night show will consist of pieces from three Colorado artists—Don Vogl, Rosalie Sinnett, and Joe Flores—who all revel in exploring the world and capturing its beauty.…
The old West gets a modern makeover at this show by contemporary artists seeking new interpretations of classic Western themes and icons. Black silhouettes of ranchers, cowboys, Native Americans, and other figures are the focus of Denver painter Maura Allen's pop art pieces. Brad Rude's bronze animal sculptures and Tracy Stuckey's hyperrealistic oil paintings of…
Experience new works from Colorado-based artists Lydia Brokaw, Mary Mackey, and J. Bruce Wilcox on display at Denver’s oldest cooperative art gallery. Brokaw interweaves sculpture, drawing, and painting into her mixed-media pieces, while Mackey’s background in photography influences her printmaking and painting. Thu noon-5 p.m. Visit sparkgallery.com.
In this introspective exhibition, five Northern Colorado art educators deconstruct and re-think their approaches to the six traditional elements of design by creating pieces focusing on just one element. The works will be accompanied by brief written descriptions as well as videos detailing the artists' processes, which can be accessed via smartphone as you browse.…
Step into a world of color at this luminous exhibition of contemporary abstract paintings. Deborah Zlotsky's nuanced paintings of 3D geometric forms are the focus of the exhibition; however, they’ll be presented alongside a roster of abstract heavyweights including Stephen Westfall, who creates grids covered in vibrant shapes and intersections of color, and Jason Karolak,…
This contemporary gallery will launch its newest exhibit, Amalgamated Contemplation, which explores the fundamental artistic principles of color, line, and form in unique ways, from abstract painting to graffiti art to monoprints. The group exhibition features works by artists Roland Bernier, Ben Strawn, Angela Beloian, Kellie Cannon, and Brandon Reese. Fri 5-9 p.m. Visit walkerfineart.com.
Berlin-based artist Sarah Schönfeld makes her solo debut in the United States with this fascinating and cerebral exhibit. Playing with themes of futurism, archaeology, anthropology, and outer space, the multi-genre exhibit deals as much in philosophy as it does in visual art. Investigating the idea of the UFO as a manifestation of our modern alienation…
The images and styles of this year's CFFAP portrait exhibit vary widely (subjects include children, goats, and even a broom); however, each work contains an element of pure honesty and succeeds in expanding the traditional definition of portrait. Don't miss this year's Director's Selection, John Bonath's The Boxer—a raw photo of legendary Denver photographer and…
Join editors Peter Bergman and Zoe Larkins, plus chapter authors Jared Jacang and Heather Link-Bergman, for a book release, reading, and artists’ talk about the goofy 21-years of anthology of Denver’s Institute of Sociometry, a prank-art and activist-art collective. The book, handbound with Japanese stitching and featuring a crimson letterpress cover and 130 pages of…
Consider the importance of versatility and the interplay between photography and film at this showcase of 13 artists who work in both mediums. Dana Forsberg’s photos and 12-minute video document life on an organic farm in Hawaii, while more conceptual photo and art pairings examine the phenomenon of modern development. Western expansion is seen through…
Celebrate legendary Colorado artist Kim Dickey’s solo exhibition (and the release of her catalogue), at this conversation with curator Nora Burnett Abrams. The exhibit showcases the intricate floral ceramics for which Dickey is best known (including her expansive Parterre sculpture comprised of 12,000 individually crafted ceramic flowers), plus work in other media ranging from textiles…
Groundbreaking curator Di Xiao Wei comes to the Rockies for this transnational show. Wei will display his own paintings alongside those of artists discovered by his Art Gangster Club, an online community that seeks to make art curation in China more accessible. The collaborative exhibit, done in exchange with Denver-based artists' collective Hyperlink brings cutting-edge…
Discover what life is like for identical twins through Michele Wysocki’s intriguing photography exhibition, inspired by her own experience as a twin. Using techniques that degrade the photographs, such as drawing, tying in family photos and excerpts from intricate journals, genetic codes, and science studies, Wysocki explores the ways in which life and science unties…
The year's first exhibition in the Clyfford Still Museum's ongoing Artists Select series, which invites artists from different disciplines to organize an exhibition from the museum’s vast holdings of Still’s works, will provide an opportunity to view nearly 20 works by Still that have never before been on public display. Julian Schnabel, who met Still…
Redline Gallery's resident artists have looked inwards to create pieces that address the motivations sustaining their studio practices. Tasked with examining what it means to be a working artist in the modern economy, the artists have created works ranging from reflections of one LGBTQ artist at her male-dominated day job to an installation featuring Gagger…
For this intimate exhibition, New York and Boston-based photographers Allison Wade, Laura Beth Reese, Maureen Drennan, and Matthew Swarts turned their lenses on one of the most universal yet deeply personal aspects of our lives: romantic relationships. The photographs document the beginnings and endings of relationships as well as the phases in between, all the…
Tour the Colorado Springs Fine Art Center’s collections at the last of the center’s modernism-focused Learn to Look events. Architectural consultant Chuck Benson will address timely trends in architecture and design as he introduces you to the work of Norman Foster, Santiago Calatrava, Tadao Ando, and other major late modern architects. The session will focus…
Austrian artist Mathias Kessler’s quirky installments explore how we use certain objects to define what is reality using various mediums such as ice-art kept in open refrigerators, mirrors, wallpaper, and 3-dimensional printing. Kessler’s material work is just one component of the exhibit: Each Thursday, he will invite performers, including comedians, dancers, and even body painters,…
Get mesmerized by this Texan-turned-Denverite artist Mark Bueno’s hypnotic, abstracted designs. By using spray paint, masking tape, and stencil techniques on handmade circle wood panels, Bueno creates art that is reminiscent of the beautiful colors and shifting patterns in a kaleidoscope. Thu 6-8 p.m. -Image courtesy of Mike Wright Gallery visit http://markbuenostudio.com
In the late 1700s, British cartoonists responded to the increasing prominence and engagement of women in society by drawing caricatures of them. Featuring a selection of prints from Yale University’s Lewis Walpole Library by artists such as Thomas Rowlandson and James Gillray, this thought-provoking spread will have you considering how (and if) public treatment and…
During a diaspora, a large population migrates away from one cenral locaton and scatters across the world, taking their culture and memories of home with them. In this photographic exhibit, 12 artists affected by the Middle Eastern diaspora of the past 20 years express what the word means to them. Dealing with powerful themes of…
Kick off the month of photography by admiring these detailed images, which turn the movement of dance, theater, performance art and even Colorado’s music scenes, into still moments. See the human body in motion in a fresh way through these raw and elegant photos also available for purchase (lucky for us!) Fri 5-7:30 p.m. -Image…
Denver artist Georgia Amar's latest collection of landscapes, intelligent abstracts, and studies-in-motion highlights her bold use of colors as well as the unique impact of varied lighting on her engaging compositions. The gallery employs a dimmer switch so that visitors can view the paintings in different light intensities, appreciating how their foregrounds and backgrounds shift…
Gentrifcation is forcing the departure of Next and the other galleries that make up the Navajo St. Arts District in northwest Denver. For Next's final exhibition, boundary-pushing artist Josh Davy has responded to the forces that brought about the art district’s demise by creating a series of mixed-media buildings in various stages of disrepair and…
Fire and ice collide at this festive event, which will feature ice sculptures, fire dancers, jugglers, and s’mores. After you check out the five ice sculptures (including the flame-shooting centerpiece), head into the Curtis Center for some champagne tasting (and hot cocoa for the little ones). Wed 6:30-8 p.m.
Explore the remarkable—and often unheralded—Asian influence on the development of Latin America’s identity at this exhibition of panels and artifacts. Check out the 21 infographic panels documenting the Spanish journey into Asia in search of spices before you examine historic galleon coins, pineapple cloth shawls, Talavera pottery and other Latin American artifacts that reflect the…
Denver artist Barbara Baer takes inspiration from two iconic twentieth-century paintings, Henri Rousseau’s “The Dream” and Henri Matisse’s “Red Room,” to examine the idea of harmony as a mental and physical state. Her installation uses plastic steel and fabric to form a walk-in setting inside which viewers may meditate.
Though known for her stylized impressions of flowers and landscapes, Sarah Van Beckum’s newest body of work is an intriguing foray into abstraction. Lori Dresner’s colorful and abstract clay sculptures, which represent intuitive expressions of emotional states, provide a fitting compliment for Beckum’s raw, highly instinctive pieces consisting of rich colors and vibrant brush strokes.…
If you want to relive your crowd-surfing glory days (or witness the ones you were born too late to have), then head to Colorado Springs for this photographic trip through the history of rock ’n’ roll. Enjoy intimate, one-of-a-kind shots of classic performances by musicians such as Willie Nelson, David Bowie, Carlos Santana, all captured…
For this multidisciplinary exhibition, Latino artists (including two Denver artists Jaime Carrejo and Dmitri Obergell), created pieces representative of life in the comtemporary American west. The result is a collection of mixed-media, digital animation, and sculptural installations that examine diverse narratives of migration through the lens of labor, nostalgia, memory, visibility, and displacement. Tue-Thu, Sat-Sun…
Occupying a place between painterly abstraction and sculptural space, Andrew Roberts-Gray’s newest installations are as mesmerizing as they are indecipherable. The reflective surfaces and drips of paint interact with the gallery’s unique combination of ambient and natural light to produce halos and reflections that change and shift depending on the angle from which you view…
Local artist Stephanie Kantor will put a spin on the classic tourism kiosk at her latest quirky installment. She’ll use her pop-up’s presence to educate visitors on the “gift shop”, a common aspect of how we experience cultural landmarks and tourist destinations. When she is inside, Kantor will sell handmade knick-knacks, including cups, vases and…
These trippy exhibitions will have you marveling at the works of three innovative artists. See the sky from a fresh perspective through Brenda Biondo’s abstract photographs, which feature cut, folded, and reshaped images of the sky. Duo Douglas Kahn and Renee Alpert will transform your idea of urban construction through their vibrant geometric photographs of…
Swedish artist Anna Olsson’s vivid textiles tell stories of social injustices. Inspired by her interactions with inmates of Swedish prisons (who she spoke with seeking inspiration for this exhibit), the tapestries depict convey both the vulnerability of isolation and the strength of the spirit through images of the individuals in story-like scenes. At the opening…
This juried show will feature the style and vision of the talented Denver Metro high school photography students with subjects ranging from portraits to innovative abstracts. Embark on a journey that highlights the impressive and sophisticated work of artists who are just beginning to explore the possibilities of photography as a medium. Opening reception Fri…
Support four nationally recognized Colorado artists, Kelly Berger, John K. Harrell, Kit Hevron Mahoney, and Anita Mosher, at this epic sale featuring their works of impressionist and abstract paintings priced at 20-to-50-percent-off. The sale is happening for only the second time in the acclaimed Denver studio’s 15-year-history—so don’t miss this rare opportunity to take home…
Engage in the conversation on climate change and environmental issues by attending this multimedia exhibit featuring 13 passionate artists. The show, which includes dramatic installation pieces, photography, film, and even Instagram shots, reflects some of the most serious factors threatening the environment, such as pollution, deforestation, melting ice caps, and rising sea levels. The rich…
Using her iPhone and a host of apps and filters, award-winning artist Penelope Umbrico pays homage to the mountains and the historical photographers who have captured their majesty for decades. By shooting and then manipulating images taken by artists such as Edward Weston and Ansel Adams, she explores the mutability of both the photographs and…
This wide-reaching group exhibition, which features iconic works by Andy Warhol as well as modern-day creations by Colorado Springs artist Abbey Hepner, investigates the intersection of photography with more traditional mediums. From colorful collages and installations to lithographs and flip-books, this contemporary collection reflects concepts of using photography as an ingredient rather than a specific…
Dive into the phenomenon of life’s transformations through Jeff Klapperich’s inventive portraits. His specially developed analog process incorporates drawn, painted and sculpted elements to push the boundaries of photography and create visceral representations of humanity’s place in the universe. Fri 6-9 p.m.; Tue-Sat 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Visit klapperichphoto.com.
Examine the physical and metaphorical idealization of the body through photography, fibers and mixed media. In this exhibit, Denver artist Tya Anthony highlights the complexities of american culture in the 21st Century by using organic colors and textures caused by environmental weathering. Sat 7-11 p.m.; Wed-Fri noon-7 p.m.; Sat-Sun noon-5 p.m.
Admire the painting-meets-photography works of Denver artist Joseph Coniff, who works with household writing tools such as Sharpies, pens, and pencils to make sketches. Then he uses software to enlarge, zoom, crop, and recompose his images to produce the base that he paints over for his final product. Through his unique process, Coniff creates striking…
Join local painter and sketch artist Mitch Caster, who teaches at the Art Students League of Denver, at a workshop for budding and experienced artists alike. Caster will break down the basics of sketching for beginners, and he'll help more experienced students master shading techniques. With a pencil in hand, you can craft a still life modeled after fruit and wooden…
Before you head to Coors Field for opening day, check out Denverite Kyle Banister's tribute to America's favorite sport. In vibrant works, the multimedia artist explores baseball's impact on national history and family traditions. During the opening reception, viewers can meet the creator and write their own game-related anecdotes to add to a collaborative display. —Image courtesy of Feed Media
Embark on a safari of sorts at this diverse exhibit, which features both emerging and established photographers, including Don Wolfe and Sarah Corbin. The images—in vibrant colors as well as neutral tones—depict wild and domestic scenes, such as a cat on an ironing board. The distinct characteristics of nature’s creatures, from fierce lions to slimy worms,…
At this art-focused party, watch painting demonstrations by local creatives Armando Silva and Eric Corrigan as Weird Touch and DJ Musa spin a catchy set list. Before you leave, purchase a limited-edition sculpture by Denver artist Matt Scobey. Proceeds benefit CultureHaus, a Denver Art Museum support group that organizes fresh exhibitions and behind-the-scenes programs.
For this captivating exhibition, 120 local artists have each created a piece of art, ranging from abstract paintings to handmade jewelry. All valued at a minimum of $120, the works will be on display for three weeks before a gala, at which a random drawing will decide which 120 ticket holders will receive a creation to take home.…
[caption id="attachment_80521" align="alignnone" width="960"] Realness by Mark Bradford[/caption]In this collaborative exhibit paintings by renowned mixed-media artist Mark Bradford will be displayed alongside related canvases by the late, great abstract expressionist Clyfford Still. Bradford, inspired by Still’s extensive use of the color black, incorporates the shade across several different mediums, such as photomechanical reproductions, acrylic gel,…
Gain insight on the process of making eye-catching magazine covers from speaker DJ Stout, a graphic designer with years of experience. At the talk, Stout will present his top five cover picks for 2016, including the New Yorker’s March cover of President Trump’s little hands and Variety’s April cover illustration by Anita Kunz. The award-winning art director of Texas…
What do singer Judy Collins, doctor Susan Anderson, and pilot Penny Hamilton all have in common? They're all pioneers in their fields—and they’re also among the 50-plus Colorado women featured at this portrait exhibition. Learn more about individuals, including professor of animal science Temple Grandin and physician Justina Ford, who transformed science and the arts. Bonus:…
More than 20 artists will ditch the confines of a studio to explore Boulder for a week-long festival. Paintings created on-site will depict or find inspiration from Boulder’s scenic downtown such as Pearl Street Mall, surrounding mountains such as Chautauqua, valley areas, and nearby farms. If you want to test your art-skills, there will be…
This intimate black-and-white photography exhibit by Kansas-based artist Daniel W. Coburn challenges our ideas about traditional family photos and the role they play in our understanding of the American Dream. Coburn draws inspiration from haunting events in his own family’s past, including domestic violence and suicide, to capture honest moments of loved ones in quiet…
Denver painter Forest Morrison, known for crafting tongue-in-cheek murals based on classic works, will focus on the dangers of technology in his latest exhibit. Through a clever juxtaposition of still life “memento-mori” paintings and contemporary ads, Morrison will warn viewers that electronics are replacing our direct connections with nature.
At this regional competition, Rocky Mountain quilters will present patchwork scenes depicting the rugged landscapes of the American West. Check out both traditional and unconventional (think: 3D) quilted pieces as well as Western-themed wearables such as skirts or sweaters.
During this art event, 150 trees lining the streets of the Denver Theatre District will be painted blue by arts activist Konstantin Dimopoulos, volunteers, and even Mayor Michael B. Hancock. The unconventional installation will draw attention to the impact trees have on our environment, encouraging viewers to ponder the negative effects of global deforestation.
Our children's museum wants the city to know that its doors are open to everyone—so it's installed a few more. In response to increasingly negative immigration policies, the museum invited 11 local artists to design doors—from Maeve Eichelberger's peacock-emblazoned portal to Armando Silva's doorway declaring "We Are 1"—for a new public art installation. At the…
Support the University of Colorado Art Museum's acquisition of the Sharkive: a collection of prints (by more than 160 printmakers worldwide) produced by Shark's Ink, a contemporary-print publisher in Lyons owned by Bud and Barbara Shark. The evening event will feature artist-designed tables, farm-to-table dining from the Big Red F, specialty cocktails, and live music…
Admire the art of three Denver couples—Kristen Hatgi Sink and Mark Sink, Mamiko and Homare Ikeda, and Sylvia Montero and Tony Ortega—at this exhibit. In their artwork, which ranges from painting and calligraphy to video installation and photography, these creatives explore their relationships through both solitary and collaborative projects. In addition to the collection, Ortega will do an opening…
Unconventional New York City–based artist Eric Blum adds layers of ink-soaked and beeswax-infused silk to canvas to create an ethereal collection of works. He occasionally incorporates silk scraps from his old works into newer pieces of emotional abstract art.
Thanks to this outdoor exhibit, Mile High City denizens have the chance to see iconic works by American sculptor Alexander Calder. Ten of his giant bolted-steel-plate pieces, most of which are abstract and vibrant, will complement the curves and folds of the surrounding plant life. In addition, don't miss the chance to see one of his signature…
At the largest juried art show in the state, 56 Coloradans will display their work. At the opening reception, gallery-goers can meet several of the local creatives and browse the varied collection of art, which includes abstract painting, sculptures, and photography. Check out bronze sculptures by local legacies George and Mark Lundeen while savoring artisanal cheese plates…
Like other open-air painters, Coloradan Beverly Thomas takes her sketch pad and easel outside. Unlike other outdoor artists, however, she uses broad brush strokes and bold primary colors to capture abstract impressions of nature instead of hyper-representational images. For this solo exhibition, she’ll show off her takes on natural vistas from around the Centennial State,…
Join the Latino multi-media artist behind Erasure, one of the installations featured in the Denver Art Museum’s Mi Terra exhibit for a thought-provoking lecture. At this talk, Ana Teresa Fernández will explore the ways in which she explores the barriers—both psychological and physical—of gender, race, and class in her work.
At this spring sale, browse a variety of ceramic pieces made by local potters. More than 50 Colorado artists will showcase their works, which range from classic porcelain ware and vibrant handmade mugs to jewelry and fused glass. If you're particularly impressed by an item, you're in luck: After admiring the collection, you can buy your favorite decor to…
Celebrate the longest street in America at this showcase by young Picassos. ArtWorks Artists, a group of 12 low-income teens, created a collection of 26 paintings, drawings, and photographs to represent each mile of Colfax Avenue. See if you can spot landmarks in their work—in one painting, for example, a dragon eats the classic restaurant…
This Denver mixed media artist will display a collection of two-inch-by-three-inch pieces at her whimsical exhibition. In colored pencil drawings, watercolors on paper or wood, and acrylic canvas paintings, Klein creates imaginary worlds featuring silly scenarios, such as an owl wearing red high heels and tube socks watering a plant.
Escape to a mysterious and uncomfortable world through the latest works by internationally acclaimed artist David Cheifetz. For this solo show, Cheifetz seamlessly weaves fantasy and realism together to create eerie still lifes and startling portraits of supernatural creatures.
Celebrate the Centennial State’s Western heritage at this lecture by painter and sculptor Kim Wiggins, an artist most well known for his works depicting landscapes of the American West. At the enlightening talk, the New Mexico–based creative will discuss major influences on his style—such as expressionism and Hispanic folk art—as well as the artwork on display.
At this eccentric show, local ceramicist Kelly Clements will explore the emotional process of transitioning from girlhood to womanhood. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences, Clements forms sculptures of household objects to highlight the tools women use to craft their identities during adolescence. By doing so, she urges viewers to consider the ways in which…
Don't miss this kick-off celebration for the Biennial of the Americas, a multi-cultural, weeks-long celebration of arts and a platform for important conversations on civic and social issues. The evening of live music and entertainment is hosted by Flobots frontman Jonny 5, and will feature art installations by Jeromie Dorrance and Chris Bagley, spirit tastings, a Cuban cigar…
This landscape-themed collection of photos juried by Lisa Volpe, the associate curator of photography at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, will feature more than 40 artists, including Boulder-based Pinque Clark and the award-winning Rocky Mountain photographer Sean Du. Museum-goers can expect to see scenes from around the globe, including South Carolina’s Congaree National Park…
This contemporary exhibit of impressionist works highlights the talents of two female artists from Russia, Lyudmila Agrich and Julia Klimova. Escape to European cityscapes and lush fields of poppies in Agrich’s artwork, which she creates by layering paint with a palette knife. Admire figures, landscapes and still lifes by Klimova.
Denver's most famous number is used in a new context for this exhibition of pieces by Colorado printmakers. The works on display were all created by artists within a 528-mile radius of the Mile High City, from Boulder's Roberta Restaino to Buena Vista's Jude Silva. The resulting collection includes lithographs, silkscreens, and intaglio prints (made by cutting designs…
Put on in conjunction with the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, this exhibit compiles paintings, sculptures, and film clips to show how art contributed to the mythical construct of the American West. Expect everything from a Civil War–era painting by landscape artist Albert Bierstadt (yes, like the mountain) to clips from Westerns by director John…
At this group exhibition, find extraordinary beauty in an ordinary office supply. Featuring the work of twenty artists, including Denver’s Mike McClung and Colorado State University alumna Sophia Dixon Dillo, the collection will include innovate works of art made from paper. Check out paper folded to look like a crashed airplane as well as textured handmade…
Think back to the cut-and-pasted collages you might have made in school as a kid, and now imagine they were made up of political headlines and avant garde self-portraits rather than pictures of puppies or cars. That gives you some idea of the radical-yet-familiar work of local artist Jessica Loredo. In this solo exhibition, the Denverite uses news…
For the first time, art lovers can venture into the home studios of professional artists living in Lakewood. Abstract painter Carrie MaKenna and 20-plus other local creatives will show off their works-in-progress. As you tour their spaces, glimpse pieces in a variety of different mediums, from sculpture and mosaics to photography and hand-made violins, and…
Colorado photography isn't all Instagrammed snapshots of mountain landscapes and landmarks like Coors Field. Check out the more high-brow side of the medium at this juried group exhibition featuring fine art photography from artist members of the Colorado Photographic Arts Center, many of whom live in the Centennial State. The 21-artist roster includes Boulder photographer Kevin Hoth as well as Colorado…
For this thought-provoking exhibition, local painter Shawn Huckins layers phrases from vintage love letters, postcards, and American folk songs over his acrylic paintings of pastoral scenes. By drawing attention to examples of emotional language from the past, he aims to make us consider how we talk about our feelings in the Internet age.
With more than 260 vendors selling Colorado-made artwork in a variety of mediums (think: ceramics to book arts and oil painting), you're sure to find decor that suits your taste at this outdoor market. Browse pieces made by locals such as photographer Neal Pierman, Painter Diana Andersen, and sculptor Dwight Davidson while your kids do craft projects with Art…
For this eccentric pop-up exhibit, a Denver park will be transformed into a psychedelic garden reminiscent of Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking Glass. Designed by San Francisco-based artist Bill Kennedy, this installation will include enormous, illuminated inflatable creatures that vaguely resemble snails and caterpillars. As you browse the unconventional works, enjoy live music by rock group Ned Garthe Explosion and…
Thanks to this group exhibition, you don't have to travel to the Louvre or Palace of Versailles to see ornate Baroque art. To create each piece in the show—from New York–based AM DeBrincat’s mixed media portraits garnished with gold leaf to Old Master–inspired watercolors by Michelle Avery Konczyk—the artists incorporated elements of the 17th- and 18th-century style to…
Honor Henry Lowenstein at this exhibit about his brainchild, Festival Caravan (a free series of performances held in local parks from 1973 to 1985). Check out his hand-drawn map of the parks the festival visited and a documentary featuring artists who worked with the theater legend, including choreographer Cleo Parker Robinson.
For this unconventional exhibition, palettes have graduated from artists' humble tools to become their canvases. This 70-person show features a roster of international rising stars, including Puerto Rican painter Luis Borrero and Belgian native Dimitri Desiron, all of whom have applied oils directly to palettes. Stop by to admire Abend Gallery's new LoDo space as well as some cutting-edge…
Pittsburgh artist Adam Milner aims to preserve everyday moments of intimacy and touch in this intriguing exhibit. He incorporates materials from his daily life, such as fabric from his clothing as well as petals from his flowers, into videos and slideshows that archive his relationships and day-to-day experiences.
Denver artist Pattie Lee Becker shows off her energetic and emotional pieces, which blur the line between real life and the abstract. In ink-and-colored-pencil drawings as well as sculptures, she offers playful, stylized interpretations of plants, tornadoes, and other elements of the natural world.
By photographing religious rituals, Brazilian artist Guy Veloso strives to capture moments of true faith. His moving images of women praying the rosary and Candomblé followers participating in an African-Brazilian dance for the gods encourage viewers to empathize with others regardless of their religious backgrounds.
Humanity’s relationship with the environment is complicated: while it is a constant source of creative inspiration, we exploit and damage it for precious resources. The artists in this exhibition grapple with this paradox through abstract works inspired by forms found in nature. Between Carol Browning’s frenetic brushwork and Norman Epp’s jagged sculptures of wood and…
In the words of Netflix's Kimmy Schmidt, females are strong as hell. With this show, you can soak up a bit of that feminine strength. The all-lady exhibition features musings on the experience of womanhood from six artists, including Coloradans Amber Cobb, Margaret Neumann, and Sarah Bowling. Expect everything from video to paintings, occasional explicit…
In the past few decades, Cherry Creek residents Morton and Tobia Mower have amassed a collection of masterworks by famous artists. View some of their extraordinary pieces—including Rembrandt portraits and etchings as well as prints by impressionist Claude Monet and pop artist Andy Warhol—at this world-class show.
Come visit far flung places of both fantasy and reality through the eyes of 25 different artists. Hike through dizzying mountain ranges with Christopher Brown and explore the depths of space painted by Lanny DeVuono in this group show featuring artists from the front range. Their work will be on display in Republic Plaza office…
Most people don’t enjoy the sound of a creaking rocking chair. However, you might change your mind after experiencing designers Héctor Esrawe and Ignacio Cadena’s outdoor installation La Musidora: A row of colorful reclining seats that emit a chorus of pleasant noises as you rock. Located in the Martin Plaza, the work is a perfect place…
The phrase “everyone’s a critic” has negative connotations, however these artists used 200 opinions on their works in progress to inform and shape their finished products. This eclectic show of pots, paintings, quilts, and stories reveals the transformative power of feedback in a collaborative exhibition that invites the spectator in on the process.
Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around (at some meditative art) once in a while, you could miss it. A dozen abstract and minimalist artists from around the world contributed large-scale works to this exhibit, transforming RedLine's 6,000-square-foot gallery space into an artistic sanctuary. Visitors are encouraged to unplug from the…
In our sleek, stainless steel world it is easy to forget the earthly origins of metal. Wilson Thomas brings the forge back to nature, using unconventional techniques to create hand-crafted jewelry inspired by the environment. Marvel at the wood-grain patterns of mokume-gane metalwork and curving shapes inspired by flowing water in these wearable works of…
In addition to admiring Jeanne Trueax’s large acrylics and pen-and-ink drawings, meet the local artist in person at this solo show. The Colorado native’s style ranges from realistic (check out her striking painting depicting a bighorn sheep) to more stylized pieces (like a drawing of a cowgirl with bubbles floating out of her head).
The team behind HAHO craft fairs isn't new to Denver's indie market scene, but their venue this month is so new that it isn't even finished yet. This fair features the same premise as all of HAHO's shows—30+ of the city's best artists, artisans, and food makers plus a buffet brunch (this one "summer lovin'"…
As longtime residents of the Pikes Peak region, artists Wendy Mike and De Lane Bredvik have witnessed the devastation that wildfires and floods cause. With life-size models of humans as well as projections of fire and water, the creatives invite viewers to reflect on their fragile environments and their resilience in the face of disaster.
Curious about the glamorous lives of art collectors? Denver philanthropists and patrons of the arts Sharon and Lanny Martin have opened up their home in the Daniel Libeskind-designed Museum Residences for an evening of fine dining and modern art. Enjoy a meal prepared by chef Kevin Taylor of Hickory & Ash and a talk on…
Denver's neighbor to the northwest is always artsy, but they're really kicking it up a notch this weekend. Boulder's Pearl Street Mall transforms into an open-air art gallery for this two-day fête featuring nearly 100 artists from across the country. Shop for wares from woodworking and ceramics to painting and jewelry, and bring the kiddos—Boulder-based…
During this 10-venue home tour, pieces from 17 artists as well as the design skills of 14 Colorado architects will be on display. At each stop, you can check out exhibitions and meet their creators, including Flair Robinson, a Telluride native who uses recycled materials in her mosaics. As you admire the artwork, sample small…
Thought-provoking abstract artist Sue Simon combines both her passions—science and painting—for this quirky show. To show that both small and large objects are part of the same solar system, the Denver creative depicts Oreos and fortune cookies in orbit alongside numerical formulas for astrological events in her oils and collages.
With this installation, artist Roni Horn engages in an insightful dialogue with several of Clyfford Still’s paintings. The exhibit will include several of Still’s works from the 1940s until his death in 1980—which have never been previously on display—as well as the nature sculptures Horn created in response to them.
For the third installment in their Artists Select series, the Clyfford Still Museum invited conceptual artist Roni Horn to compose an exhibition of Still’s work. Horn frames the iconic abstract paintings through her own critical lens, focusing in on personal experience and connection to place in work never before seen by the public. This rare…
Evergreen-based abstract artist Melanie Warsinske and other Mirada Gallery regulars will be on site to discuss their creative processes during this intimate soiree. Warsinske will create colorful landscapes live as guests view other artworks created exclusively for the event. Live music by singer-songwriter Branden Sipes and Napa Valley wines complement the elegant atmosphere.
The small Philippine island Caohagan is known for pristine ocean views, vibrant coral reefs, and quilts. More than 100 of the people living on the island have made complex and colorful quilts inspired by the surrounding tropical flora and fauna, their most notable export. This exhibition will feature some of the finest examples of these…
At this exhibition of new works by two contemporary artists, you can compare two vastly different media and subject matter. In Denverite Sharon Feder’s oil paintings and mixed media works, she represents the Mile High City’s changing urban landscapes, while Australia native Kate Breakey uses a silver gelatin print process to craft images of animal…
No need to pinch yourself, the dreamlike worlds and eccentric characters conjured in this exhibition are rooted in reality. While these paintings and sculptures appear lighthearted and whimsical, each artist is using their work to reflect on gentrification, urban life, and the environment. For example, the bucolic illustrations of Brooklyn-based artist Daniel Shaffer are filled…
At this whimsical solo exhibition, Sara Wilson (better known by the moniker Fly Okay) will share a collection of illustrations inspired by her Koreatown experiences. In her work, the Los Angeles–based digital artist depicts fantastic worlds full of monsters, mythological creatures, and references to pop culture, such as characters from ’90s hit anime show Sailor…
Inspired by the political maelstrom that was 2016, Colorado artists Earl Chuvarsky and Donny Dixon present their own meditations on contemporary American culture in this dual exhibition. Chuvarsky’s paintings feature wind up toys, dollar bills and bald eagles on a stark white background, magnifying their symbolic power. Dixon burns chemical solvents on canvas—effectively painting with…
Centennial State, meet the surveillance state. In this show, three prominent photographers will explore the tradeoff between national security and personal privacy. Check out Hasan Elahi's Alert V2 installation, which explores photography's role in documenting citizenship and migration; Lauren Grabelle's Photographer X, which examines casino life from the angle of security cameras; and Sheri Lynn Behr's NoMatterWhere, a series that photographs…
One of the most sinister aspects of climate change is that it’s difficult to truly see, and for many, seeing is believing. The artists in this exhibition make environmental issues visible through unconventional mediums like live plants and vinyl. To wit: Brian House’s take on the 2015 Gold King Mine spill consists of vibrating sheets…
More than 20 creatives from the metro area use their work to make a political statement about Next Gallery’s recent move from Denver to Lakewood during this group exhibition. With his ceramic sculptures, Mile High City–based artist Josh Davy laments the loss of the gallery and other historical buildings in the Navajo Street Art District,…
Although they portray different subject matter in their artwork, all three of the artists featured in this group show boast styles that fall under the umbrella of realism. Denver-based painter Wes Magyar convincingly captures human emotions in his oil-on-canvas portraits, German native Ricki Klages paints detailed watercolor landscapes and Shelby Shadwell draws large-scale charcoal works…
HAHO stands for handmade homemade, and that’s exactly what you get at this monthly pop up market. The intimate space is bursting with boutique soaps, perfumes, clothes, fiber crafts and more that will leave you plenty satisfied.There will also be vendors selling scrumptious treats like Becca Bear’s chocolate chip cookies, so you can snack while…
Former National Endowment for the Arts fellow and human rights photographer Fazal Sheikh’s first comprehensive American exhibition features shots from his two-decades-long career. At this moving display, view more than 100 portraits depicting individuals who lived in displaced communities in East Africa, Asia, and the Netherlands between 1989 and 2013.
With this powerful exhibit of portraits, Gary Kaplan, who died earlier this year, and sexual abuse survivor Stephanie Hamilton-Oravetz collaborated to help the victim cope with her traumatic past. By expressing her own personal history with abuse, Hamilton-Oravetz was able to confront her own repressed memories. During the show’s opening night celebration, she’ll discuss the…
Artist Joel Swanson considered the language Americans use to talk politics as inspiration for this illuminating solo show. Using a variety of media—including neon sculptures, photos, mixed media works, and animations—the Denver artist aims to draw attention to marginalized individuals who don’t feel like they have a voice within our current political system.
To find one of the state’s most scenic arts festivals, look between the table mountains. Situated in Golden’s historic downtown, this outdoor gathering is replete with paintings, sculpture, and jewelry crafted by more than 130 artists from 20 different states. To top it all off, an abundance of live music, craft beer and street food…
In his acrylic-on-canvas works, Arizona-based artist Bruce Marion applies multiple layers of paint to achieve dramatic contrast between light and shadow. His colorful paintings, which feature people, wildlife, and Denver cityscapes, are abstract in style. Instead of simply capturing his subjects’ appearances, he aims to evoke the emotional experience of seeing that place or creature…
Three Brazilian artists are using this group exhibit to reflect on their home country’s shifting national identity. For example, photographer Ana Carolina turns her lens on gender-nonconforming individuals while Annie Gonzaga incorporates watercolors and found objects to confront themes of resistance and decolonization.
For this joint exhibition, Colorado native Bruce Clark and Judy Horowitz will use the same artistic medium for vastly different results. Clark paints flurries of form and color that seamlessly fuse oil paint and digital photography, while Horowitz takes a more figural approach, using a dusky color palette depicting slice-of-life scenes of people with tattoos.
What if the chic galleries and shops of Cherry Creek could be set against a backdrop of stunning peaks? That’s the vibe at this alpine art festival, which was ranked as one of the top fine art festivals in the country by Sunshine Artist Magazine. Check out more than 100 artisans from across the country…
You can always find a passel of Picassos in New York or Barcelona, but for the next three months, you only have to go as far as Loveland. The town's art museum enters its own blue period this fall with two exhibits devoted to the Spanish master. Visage, naturally, focuses on facial portraiture across 35…
The dolls might be small, but it’s no mystery why this eccentric sales expo draws a large crowd. All can marvel at handcrafted miniatures, including wood turnings, food replicas, and paintings, and explore elaborate dollhouses designed around the mansion mystery theme (if you look hard enough, there will be surprises galore). You can even take…
Whether you have lofty dreams of drawing flowers like a Dutch master, or simply have an interest in plant anatomy, this weekend class for beginners will help cultivate your artistic abilities. Learn basic techniques to render the shading, perspective, and texture of plants with technical accuracy. All are invited in to stop and sketch the…
Animals have captured the imaginations of artists since humans first began drawing petroglyphs on the walls of caves. This show traces across artistic periods and mediums to bring together 300 objects from the museum’s permanent collection of beasts from around the world. Check out everything from statues of South Asian gods to British photographer Eadweard…
Watch these spray can Picassos in action as they paint the town red (and blue and green and yellow…) Throughout the week, artists from Denver and beyond (the lineup will not be announced until the week of) will create massive technicolor murals on the walls of buildings throughout the River North Arts District. This graffiti-centric…
Past and present representations of human conflict collide at this dual exhibition featuring contemporary art as well as propaganda posters from World War I. Walk through The Great War: Visions of A World Conflict to learn more about the images and rhetoric used to recruit Americans to participate in a global war. Then view contemporary…
While it may come as a surprise, Denver is home to the first festival celebrating animated digital art (aka. not your Saturday morning cartoons). Entering its second year, the event will feature public displays of commissioned work by selected artists and host a competition screening juried by renowned animators Faiyaz Jafri, Raquel Meyers, and Peter…
Step aside, kids drawing hopscotch grids—this weekend, some real chalk artists are coming to town. The amateur and professional artists in this competition will create their large-scale asphalt masterpieces before your eyes, all while a full-scale festival with food trucks, artisan vendors and live music goes on around them. Cast your vote for the people's…
Two art shows are better than one—especially when they've got local artists using earth's physical beauty as both subject and medium. Survey, featuring Colorado painter Lui Ferreyra alongside West Virginia's Lynn Boggess and Santa Fe-based Jivan Lee, focuses on high-elevation terrain with everything from geometric to impressionistic mountain landscapes. The Reclamation Suite, meanwhile, features stone…
Within the Hindu pantheon, Ganesha is one of the most widely revered and easily recognizable deities (due to his elephantine features and his ability to remove obstacles that prevent one from achieving great wealth and success). One of the earliest known artistic portrayals of the god, a nearly 1300-year-old statue, will be on loan from…
Walk alongside life-size dinosaur skeletons and dozens of fossils at this interactive exhibit, which features some remarkable scientific research on our prehistoric friends. Let your inner paleontologist go wild as you search for tiny fossils with a microfossil sifter or examine the skeleton of a Carnotaurus with augmented reality viewers. If you prefer to dig…
This is your chance to peek into the creative spaces of more than 100 Boulder artists. For two consecutive weekends, check out the personal studios of the city’s finest painters, sculptors, and photographers. Discover how Bill Border composes his abstract figural paintings or how Elizabeth Quan constructs delicate ceramics and jewelry. You can even bypass…
You shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but when they're this pretty, that impulse can be hard to resist. For this group show, curators from Abecedarian Gallery selected 25 artists from around the country (including Denver's own Mackenzie Browning) to show off some of the book art genre's most beautiful designs. Most of the…
Reflect upon Arlette Lucero’s vibrant paintings and Ana Maria Hernando’s floral-inspired fabric sculptures in this collection of work by five Chicana women living and working in Colorado. This exhibition will also attempt to bring attention to the lives and experiences of women of color with a live storytelling session with the artists and other women…
Honor your ancestors at this cultural event and exhibition—the largest Day of the Dead celebration in Colorado. The exhibition will feature traditional gigantes (giant puppets) made by local artists and altars for the dead. Also, the family celebration on November 4 will include themed activities such as sugar skull decorating and face painting.
Raven Chacon wants you not just to look at art but also to listen to it. At this experimental exhibition, the Navajo artist will draw on his background in musical composition to create collaborative sculpture and video, blended with sounds both natural and artificial (think: various instruments, voice recordings, and the ambient sounds of nature).…
Los Angeles–based artist Jennifer Steinkamp creates digital animations that mimic the movement of plants—to an uncanny degree. For this projected exhibit, her virtual trees gently sway as they cycle through the seasons before your eyes.
If you didn't check out RiNo's newest gallery ATC Den when it opened in July, you'll have another chance to see the space (and work from local artists) at this exhibition of contemporary works on paper. Denver-based photographer Christopher R. Perez, who is known for using analog photographic processes, will showcase a collection of intriguing…
While male Impressionists such as Claude Monet and Edgar Degas are some of the most well-known artists to date, their female counterparts were largely ignored and forgotten by history. This groundbreaking exhibition is one of the first to exclusively showcase work by women artists of the Impressionist period (the late 1800s), including painters Berthe Morisot…
There is a bit of mystery involved with this art show. The lively fundraiser (proceeds will benefit RedLine Gallery and their community programs) will feature 100 pieces (all one square foot) by 100 anonymous artists for $100 each. You won’t discover who made a piece unless you buy it, but the gallery typically receives submissions…
The red rocks and clear blue sky of the American West will be on full display in this crowd-pleasing exhibition and fundraiser. The show will feature paintings, drawings, pottery, and sculptures depicting the Colorado Plateau and the Four Corners region, all made by nationally recognized western artists such as New Mexican painter William Acheff. For…
Here is your chance to get a glimpse of Denver’s up and coming artists. Fine Arts students will showcase their artwork in two two-week long exhibitions as a culmination of their studies in studio art and communication design. Treat your eye to a variety of mediums and techniques (including painting, drawing, ceramics and photography) and…
Curiosity and wonder won’t be the only thing you find at this exhibition, the title of which is Latin for “hover.” Boulder artist Martha Russo uses her expertise in developmental biology to transform clay into life-like representations of human anatomy and nature. Her ceramic installations often defy the laws of gravity; the otherwise dense material…
See the Mile High City from a whole new angle at this show, which gives a glimpse into the history and culture of neighborhoods around town. More than a dozen Colorado artists—including Denver pastel artist Danyl Cook and Evergreen watercolor artist Julie Leidel—will showcase paintings, drawings, etchings, photographs and sculptures that portray an image of…
Sure, there are roughly a million galleries in the Mile High City where you could view some cool art this week—but how many have a 150-year history? At this brand-new event, guided tours of the Speer gallery—known for its fine antiques and contemporary Oriental rugs—will be supplemented by a silent auction, a gala, and a…
At art school exhibitions, the students’ pieces tend to be in the spotlight. This unconventional exhibit showcases the work of the educators instead. More than two dozen experienced professors from across the country , including Dan Thompson from the local Art Students League and the Da Vinci Institute’s Mandy Theis Hallenius, will converge on Denver…
Explore the emotionally compelling stories of life within a Japanese American internment camp at this historic exhibition. Part of a long-term community based research project executed by the Department of Anthropology at the University of Denver, this exhibition features everyday objects from Amache, the site of a World War II Japanese American internment camp in…
Don’t worry, this exhibition is neither gloomy nor bestial; the title is simply a play on the artists’ names. Deborah Jang and Mark Friday, two Denver artists known for experimenting with reclaimed materials (think: metal, wood, and found objects), will show off their quirky styles in this exhibition featuring interactive installations that the artists want…
You guessed it: The bulk of the pieces in this exhibition will be white (with some shades of gray and ivory speckled in). Ten different artists from across the country will be featured, including award-winning painter Marks Aardsma and Steamboat artist Wendy Kownyia, who specializes in woven textiles. View everything from wire hangings to oil…
You and your plus one won’t be the only pair on this sophisticated evening at the Clyfford Still Museum. Match holiday-themed bites with Wine Dispensary’s executive sommelier, Rob MacKenzie’s pick of 10 wines, such as Tuscan chardonnay and Venetian prosecco. Before you finish your Sauternes dessert wine with mulled-sangria poached pear, be sure to enjoy…
For veterans returning from the battlefield, post-traumatic stress and other mental health issues can present formidable barriers to living a peaceful life. Recently, two local organizations dedicated to providing vets with artistic outlets teamed up with the Colorado Photographic Arts Center (CPAC) to give former service members formal training in visual storytelling. During this exhibition,…
The color and humor pottery-focused exhibition may be just the pick-me-up you need on a dreary November day. Some pieces have zany designs made with bright reds, yellows and blues while others are more humorous than colorful—one particular piece looks like a potato but with curious blue eyes staring back at you. Some of the…
Painter Linda Herritt calls New York home these days, but before hitting the Big Apple, she taught art at University of Colorado Boulder for nearly two decades. This contemporary exhibition is your chance to peep her work back in the Centennial State. The catchphrases featured in this show ("good girl," "stay," "down") come from Herritt's…
Whether you are a fashionista, a video game connoisseur, or an urban art fan, this three-part event is sure to entertain you. To kick off the evening, University of Colorado Denver art history professor Maria Buszek will give a talk about punk fashion, and then chiptune (think: a type of electronic music) composer Pieter Montoulieu…
This group exhibition highlights works from three abstract artists, all of whom bring a similar fluid, lifelike quality to their pieces. In Denverite Michael Clapper’s sculptures of simple shapes, strong, rigid materials have a bending, moving tension, which pairs well with the shadowy strokes of New York artist Ryan Magyar’s oil paintings and Kansas native…
The amusing aspects of plants are on display in this playful exhibit. Students from the Denver-based School of Botanical Art and Illustration rely on their knowledge of plants’ physiology and ecology, along with their artistic skills, to create scientifically accurate yet whimsical portrayals of everything from a Japanese iris to artichokes.
Seventy-five years ago, just before the United States entered World War II, Buckley Air Force Base opened in Aurora. Since then, the military landmark has been home to members of the Colorado Air National Guard and established itself as a primary center for missile defense technology. At this exhibit, check out a collection of black-and-white…
A theme of abstraction and subtle societal commentary runs throughout this group exhibition featuring three Denver artists. Jason Cope paints and molds pieces of found objects—including shards of wood and metal—into 3-D paintings and collages depicting the complexities of ecology and nature, while Krista Williams (aka. Art by 13) mixes imagery from pop, modern, and…
The 3,000-person town of Walsenburg may not seem like a fine arts destination, but this swanky fundraiser hopes to change that perception. On the heels of the afternoon's workshop for local for local business owners, this gala supports restoration and expansion efforts at the Museum of Friends, a quirky regional art museum housed in the…
Colorado artist Steve Austin creates paintings and drawings that rely on geometric shapes to show how nature is always moving and shifting, even when it might seem fixed in place. To wit: When he looks at mountains, he sees the motion of their jagged lines, pointed tips, and shifting shadows. See how he uses oil…
Take home a miniature painting from this show—or maybe several, since you’ll have the extra wall space. A diverse collection of smaller pieces from 11 of Colorado’s most prominent artists, including contemporary oil painter Jeannie Paty and sculptor Errol Beauchamp, will be available for purchase at this one-night-only exhibition and sale.
Landscape painting doesn't just depict rolling hills and sunsets. In this group show, juried by local artist Robert Spooner, more than three dozen creatives from around the Rocky Mountain region will use a variety of mediums to give their interpretation of city life. A few standard skylines and street scenes made the cut, but this…
In the first major Colorado exhibition featuring her art, Hung Liu—who was born and lived in China until she immigrated to the United States in 1984—will showcase 15 large-scale paintings as well as a room-size installation. Liu explores the themes of movement and migration in her work, both practically and metaphorically. Explore how personal memory…
If you’re searching for a glitzy gift for that special someone, check out this holiday show. Cleveland jeweler Todd Pownell will showcase his entire line of handcrafted jewelry, including bridal jewelry and one-of-a-kind pieces such as oval drop earrings and gold rings. Pownell works with a variety of metals, including gold, platinum, and silver, carving…
If you are still looking for a Christmas present for your partner joining you at The Last Jedi this weekend, look no more. At this live art show and party, you can peruse the gallery's extensive collection of galactic art, sip on complimentary wine and beer, and watch licensed Star Wars artists create new pieces right before…
Step into the surreal, energetic world of Yis “Nosego” Goodwin (think: an image of a tiger floating in the belly of a rat) at this bizarre exhibition. The Philadelphia artist uses vibrant colors and an assemblage of patterns to create absurdist graphic illustrations of known objects and animals. See his captivating characters and whimsical images…
Blue and white porcelain from China’s Qing Dynasty and stone sculptures from 12th-century India serve as the stars of this historically themed exhibit. Curated by Tianlong Jiao, the Asian art curator at the the Denver Art Museum, this show explores a variety of historical themes, including the exchange of cross-cultural beliefs and ideas along ancient…
The abstract compositions and mountain landscapes at this exhibition pop on the wall—and not just because of their vivid color. Grand Junction artist Cynthia Duff paints with a combination of acrylics and wood stains on pieces of birch wood, which she then bends and shapes (by soaking the bark) into perfectly rounded curves. When she’s…
Explore what goes unnoticed during your daily routine at this two-artist exhibition, featuring 20-something Denverites Rowan Salem and K. Vuletich. Both artists have spent the past six months in residence at Art Gym. The fruits of their labors are a projected film of Salem doing original dances and a series of portraits of homeless teens…
As the Mile High City has exploded with growth over the past few years, rising rents have forced a number of prominent Denver art galleries out of their spaces. Spark Gallery was one of the lucky ones that had the finances to stay put, but, for one night only, it’s serving as the home for…
Explore the imperfect relationship between humans and machines (each with their own abilities, limitations, and sense of control) at this exhibition. Colorado-based artist Zach Reini attempted to completely remove his hand from the process of art making by relying on mechanical and robotic automation for mark-making. In some pieces, Reini used a graphic plotter (a…
The title of this exhibit says it all: the 13 members of Zip37 Gallery have each invited two guest artists to participate in a collaborative show. Close to 40 different Colorado artists will be featured, including illustrator and fine artist Stephen Moore and ceramic artist Pat Cronin. Glimpse a wide variety of artistic styles and…
In this group exhibition, three visual artists use depictions of nature as a metaphor for fragility and strength. Californian Kara Maria uses mixed media to layer images of animals and plants with gas pumps and factory smoke to reflect on the crumbling state of the natural world. Midwestern artist A. Mary Kay uses found objects…
The world's most famous candid fashion photographer made his name on the streets of New York, but, for this six-week exhibition, you can find his work right here in the Mile High City. Put on in collaboration with Cunningham's longtime publishers at the New York Times, this show features 45 photos and a series of audio clips…
Arizona painter Jim Waid uses his art to replicate nature’s process of growth and decay. He applies multiple layers of thick paint directly to a canvas, then selectively scrapes it away to expose brightly hued, hidden images—including everything from the rippling waves of a river to the textured leaves of a flower. Images that initially…
Take a peek through the lens of Thomas Struth’s camera at this photography exhibition, which documents the strained culture and landscape of Israel and Palestine. Taken over the course of five years, the acclaimed German photographer's series of 18 images explores the political climates of East Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, the Golan Heights, and other local…
We'll forgive you if you've forgotten the definition of "euphotic zone" from your high-school science days—it's the part of the ocean with enough light for aquatic plants and animals to thrive—but after this show, you'll have no excuse. The solo exhibition by Native American sculptor Courtney M. Leonard was inspired by the more luminous area…
Lunch counters and city buses may be some of the most potent symbols of America's segregated past, but have you ever considered how race relations affected our first responders? In celebration of Black History Month, this exhibition uses photos and artifacts to illustrate the history of Denver's black firefighters—from their separate-but-equal origins in the 19th…
Zoot suits will be on full display at this retro exhibition, where you can immerse yourself in the Pachuco culture of the 1930s and ’40s. The show—which highlights the old-school subculture of Chicanos and Mexican-Americans associated with street gangs, flamboyant attire, and exotic nightlife—will feature both art and artifacts, including everything from a full size…
Glimpse paintings from some of Haiti’s most prominent 20th-century artists (including renowned painter and sculptor Edouard Duval-Carrié) at this exhibition. The show explores the contemporary significance of Haitian art, challenging commonly held perceptions about the country as an exotic locale within the Americas. It also delves into an element of Haitian spirituality, such as loas,…
This exhibition explores French artist Edgar Degas’ lifelong fascination with nudity, horses, opera, and dance, as well as his penchant for constantly returning to the same subjects and themes. The show will feature more than 100 of Degas’ paintings, drawings, pastels, etchings, monotypes, and sculptures dealing with contemporary life in Paris from 1855 to 1906.
Celebrate your favorite canine friends at this art invitational based on the year of the dog. More than 50 Colorado artists (and one from California) will showcase paintings, mixed media, digital illustrations, and other mediums formatted to fit on an eight-inch-by-eight-inch canvas. All the artists have incorporated a canine into their work in some way,…
Look through the lens of provocative photographer Andres Serrano at this exhibition. The New York shutterbug has been both celebrated and critiqued for his controversial images that explore challenging themes such as violence, race, and poverty. Exhibit A: this show’s nine close-up prints of Native Americans in traditional dress from Serrano’s 1995-1996 Native American Portraits…
Sure, every converted warehouse in RiNo has an Instagrammable mural on its walls, but not many could boast moving pictures—until now. During this 10-night installation, 10 neighborhood buildings (from Backyard on Blake to C Squared Ciders) will become canvases for short films made by local artists such as Ivar Zeile and Mighteor. The event's website will include…
In this stereotype-inverting exhibition, women are the artists and viewers, while men are the sexualized subjects. Photographers Christa Blackwood, Lissa Rivera, and Jessica Yatrovsky explore androgyny, male body image, and the relationship between the gazer and the gazed upon in their works, which range from gritty black-and-white nudes to elaborate scenes of men in women's…
As a tribute to the millions of people who participated in women’s marches throughout the world over the past year, this inspiring exhibition celebrates female empowerment through the color pink. Local artists such as Irene Delka McCray and Frankie Toan will incorporate the hue in everything from oil paintings to quilts as they highlight the…
Crested Butte shutterbug Chris Miller moved to Colorado because of his fascination with backcountry landscapes. At this captivating photo exhibition, see his shots of the state’s stunning scenery, including the West Elk and San Juan Mountain ranges. The nature-obsessed lesnman took each image right before or after sunset and framed them using reclaimed barn wood.
At this thought-provoking exhibition, visitors can experience Gregory Block’s perception of human beings’ place on Earth through a series of international, national, and local maps. Each piece is created with found objects, including aluminum cans and carpet tracks, nailed to a board. The objects are manipulated by scorching and cutting pieces of the cans or…
This heart-warming exhibition showcases photographs taken by formerly blind folks, who have now gained their eyesight thanks to corneal transplants from Colorado and Wyoming eye donors. Experience their gratitude and amazement for the world’s beauty through their shots of scenic settings and wildlife. Proceeds from the event’s silent auction will benefit the Eye-Bank for Sight…
After a two-year hiatus, one of Denver's quirkiest museums is officially (re-) open for business. Check out the collection's new digs—featuring the original studio of the museum's namesake, painter Vance Kirkland, and a chic new space designed by Seattle architect Olson Kundig—and swing by 15 minutes before opening to catch the official ribbon-cutting. Kirkland 2.0…
If you think that dusty bible on Grandma's bookshelf is ancient, just wait 'til you see these manuscripts. Over the next six months, 20 scrolls will be displayed from the collection thought to be the world's oldest set of biblical documents. This stop marks the regional premiere of the traveling archaeology exhibit and features more…
Experience the evolution of the fashion industry—from the more formal, conservative style of the 1950s to the activewear vibe of the ’80s at this exhibition featuring the work of award-winning fashion illustrator Jim Howard. More than 100 images from the Denver resident’s nearly four decade long career will be on display for the comprehensive show.…
Sculptors Matt Jones and Virginia Coleman present artwork embodying the structures that inspire them: nature and the manmade world, respectively. Jones’ ceramic sculptures incorporate the colors, textures, and compositions of stones and other natural formations he’s seen while trekking through the Rocky Mountains on long hikes. Coleman, in contrast, welds pieces of metal together to…
Professional potter Frances Mackey was inspired to work with her hands after watching her father build her childhood home and her mother crochet decorative items to go inside it. Porcelain miniatures of that house, along with other dwellings she has lived in, will be on display at this mixed-media exhibition. The artist will also exhibit…
If you couldn't snag opening day tickets at Coors Field—or your nosebleed seats didn't get you close enough to the action—indulge your inner baseball fan at this multi-genre exhibition. The show features nearly 150 artifacts showcasing the history of the game, from the jersey Joe DiMaggio was wearing when he hit his last home run…
From the still snow-strewn peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the budding wildflowers of Indians Peak Wilderness, spring in Colorado features a variety of vibrant landscapes. At this annual festive exhibition, 10 renowned Colorado artists will present their paintings, prints, and sculptures celebrating the beauty of the season of renewal in the Centennial State. Check…
Two local artists, Pamela Gilmore Hake and Kristy Smith, showcase colorful abstract artwork that express their personal, creative inspirations. Hake’s paintings are inspired by natural materials, such as rocks, that she uses her brush to distort while still maintaining some semblance of their delicate patterns. In Smith’s pieces, she makes impromptu choices about the color,…
German artist Udo Nöger is famous for his paintings and charcoal drawings that use light to add another dimension to his work. At this exhibition, his work starts with a basic shape, such as a circle or a series of lines, on canvas; he then places layers of translucent canvas over that first drawing to…
At this compelling exhibition, viewers can explore two contemporary artists' visual representations of racially charged aspects of American history. Wendel White's photo series, Schools for the Colored, includes 20 black-and-white images of previously segregated schools that illustrate the stark contrast between the experiences of white and black Americans. Working in a different medium, Denver-based digital…
This juried exhibition is put on by an eponymous nonprofit with a mission to help promising local artists pursue their dreams. Weld County residents who are under the age of twenty-five and headed to college-level visual arts programs will compete in eight different mediums, including acrylic, pastel, and watercolor. Exemplary artists from each category will…
Amy Metier has been a abstract artist in Colorado for more than 30 years. At this exhibition, see the University of Colorado Boulder alumna's newest collages, etchings, and oil paintings, which are similar to Expressionist works from early 20th-century Europe. In addition, viewers can check out kinetic sculptures from Colorado Springs native Robert Delaney and…
Although Denver Botanic Gardens is best known for its natural creations, the organization has developed a reputation for displaying man-made art, too, with renowned sculptors loaning pieces to the gardens for months at a time. The latest example is Pixelated, an exhibit of 13 steel forms—a gnome, a cactus, a deer—that look, well, pixelated. Through…
Although these two Colorado artists work in different mediums, both use nature as inspiration for their pieces. Robb Watt draws from his expertise as a former landscape painter to embroider images of natural settings such as blooming bushes or snow-covered trees. Elaine Ricklin creates both acrylic and oil paintings and takes photographs of flowing bodies…
From a cricket’s chirp to a train’s roar, the world’s sounds served as artistic inspiration for the late Charles Burchfield. At this imaginative exhibition, experience the loud chaos of a December storm through a black-and-white pencil sketch or the quiet breeze on a hot summer day via a bright watercolor painting with wavy brush strokes.…
America's reputation as a melting pot of cultures is considered through the voices of real people in the world premiere of this short film. The thought-provoking mini-documentary examines the experience of multiracial Americans—the largest-growing demographic in the country—with a series of interviews about the challenges they face. With racial discourse at the forefront of the…
This eclectic exhibition is the largest fine art show and sale to feature only Colorado artists. Check out pieces from 50-plus makers including everything from Denver sculptor Leo Franco’s abstract wood creations to Boulder painter Kathleen Lanzoni’s detailed watercolor compositions of oak trees. And it’s all for a good cause: Proceeds will benefit a wide…
Through the dramatic works of three local artists, this innovative exhibit considers how Denver's significant growth has created a lack of affordable housing. On Thursday, the artists will be joined by activists and experts such as 2019 mayoral candidate Kayvan Khalatbari and urban planner Jonathan Cappelli for a panel discussion about the housing climate in…
To provide frazzled citygoers with brief artistic reprieves, the Denver Theatre District and other community partners are teaming up with British artist Stuart Semple to produce six public art pieces in downtown Denver. The new effort, Happy City: Art for the People, will feature installations such as an “emotional baggage drop” at Union Station, where…
Through vivacious color and abstract movement, this Denver artist's acrylics seek to be a visual representation of humans' connection to the natural world. Often juxtaposing vibrant characters with animals or scenes of nature, her work can be both whimsical or more of an environmental statement, often attempting to capture the ethereal moment when our human…
Witness the complex artistry behind the worlds of your favorite video games at this innovative exhibition spread throughout Denver Botanic Gardens. A series of still images from games such as “Lifeless Planet” and “Once Upon a Coma” will depict the many stages of creating artful virtual reality. Don’t miss opening night when Zhenghua “Zee” Yang,…
During her 12 years living in West Africa, Hollis Chatelain drew, painted, and photographed the local women, children, and families she met while working for humanitarian organizations. Upon her return to North Carolina she decided to use thread to transform the images into detailed quilt creations. This exhibition features the decorative fabrics, which include an…
Most art exhibits will ask you to look, not touch, but this month-long display encourages you to do just the opposite. At the opening night this Friday, engage with tactile works, such as 3D abstract sculptures and stone etchings. Two of the three artists featured in the event, including Denver's Jennifer Boyd, have experienced vision…
This thought-provoking exhibition focuses on one of art’s foundational elements—the line. Colorado artists will showcase the beginning stages of their sculptures, oil paintings, murals, and other artwork they hope to eventually finish. With this series of eclectic stage-one artwork, the gallery invites viewers to appreciate the early phases of the artistic process.
Inspired by his many trips to Colorado, New York–based artist Roberto Juarez uses a range of artistic mediums to create art that highlights nature’s beauty. He deploys an abstract style that incorporates both geometric shapes as well as lifelike flowers and plants. Each room at this multi-gallery exhibition will feature a different type of craft,…
If you haven’t revisited classic nursery rhymes from your childhood in a while, this imaginative exhibition may point out a moral your five-year-old self missed. Each artist will create interpretations of those fables (think: Humpty Dumpty or Sleeping Beauty) that range from dark and dreary to positive and energetic. The scenes depicted may make you…
This comprehensive exhibition represents the culmination of the past year of work by students from the Art Students League of Denver, a nonprofit that helps artists (of all abilities) learn a variety of crafts from regionally and nationally recognized creatives. The streets of the Washington Park neighborhood will be filled with more than 100 tents…
Denver artist Lisa Calzavara names each of her pieces after the emotion she hopes it will evoke. At this eclectic exhibition, see works such as “Calm Anticipation,” a realistic oil painting that features a person waiting for a city bus, and a black-and-white floral sculpture dubbed “Tranquil Vision.” The use of contrasting light and dark…
Happy City: Art for the People—a collaborative art project from Denver Theatre District and other community partners such as Black Cube art museum—is designed to improve the mood of Denverites by weaving artistic respite into the city's public spaces. As part of the ambitious undertaking, local and international artists will reimagine five downtown alleyways. At…
Drink a beer (or three) for a good cause at this fundraiser for Orpheus Music & Arts Festival. The folks at Seedstock Brewery will donate one dollar from every pint sold to help raise funds to pay musicians participating in the festival—a two-day celebration (August 31 to September 1) organized by University of Denver students…
Contemporary landscape photography takes an innovative turn at this unexpected exhibition. See more than 80 photographs that apply experimental techniques to shots of the environment and represent a reflection on the complex relationship between humans and the natural world. Gary Emrich’s All Consumed series juxtaposes landscape scenes with litter such as discarded plastic water bottles,…
Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange was met with both critical acclaim and moral outrage when it was released in 1971. The movie—filled with sadistic gang members and graphic violence—is most remembered for its on-screen atrocities. But at this special talk, Denver author Jason Heller, who’s written extensively on the film, will discuss another well-remembered piece…
Immerse yourself in one of Colorado's most intriguing conspiracy theories with Denver-based artist Ramón Bonilla’s minimalist, dystopian exhibit. Partly inspired by the haunting stories surrounding Denver International Airport (including, of course, its supposed use as a spot for clandestine Illuminati meetings), this interactive show—which includes wall and window murals, 3-D pieces, and even a ping…
Art lovers from across the Front Range will flock to the Cherry Creek Arts Festival this Saturday, but the savviest aesthetes will hit up Bubbles and Bites before the festival is in full swing. This self-guided tour of 10 of the area’s coolest shops and galleries is a great way to beat the heat—and the…
Nearly 75 artists have decorated five-by-five-inch plain panels in their own distinct styles for this imaginative exhibition. See everything from an abstract painting of a dream-like natural setting, courtesy of San Francisco’s Gage Opdenbrouw, to an eerie skeletal figure produced by Denver creative Delphyne Leah. The variety of works are a testament to the ability…
Art is often about the ability to transform the mind’s memories into a tangible expression of those recollections. This exhibit celebrates that challenge by presenting work that attempts to recapture everything from personal anecdotes to historic events To wit: The work of Arizona artist Jason Ripper’s Blood and Bone examines his mother’s death by creating…
Glass Artists of Colorado is a local group whose goal is to foster the growth of glasswork along the Front Range. At this exhibition, see work from 30 members in the nonprofit’s fellowship program, including Jeanette Bisant’s etched vases and bowls. The artists have created the functional and decorative pieces under the tutelage of famous…
Virginia Diaz Saiki enjoys her chosen medium, printmaking, because of it's old-school charm. At this thought-provoking exhibition she will use two retro techniques—intaglio and relief—to showcase a newer development: gentrification in the Mile High City. During the show, Diaz Saiki, who is originally from Peru, will complete a live demonstration to display how she recreates…
This weeklong celebration invites guests to explore Golden’s vibrant art community. Participants can enjoy more than 10 events at different venues throughout the foothills enclave, including a part-scripted, part-improv show by the Miners Alley Playhouse and the premiere of a documentary made by Foothills Art Center about a new mural created by artists from Golden…
In this creative exhibition, two local artists consider the beauty of elaborate natural structures. Kelly Mansfield’s “Voice of Nature” series includes paintings that often incorporate wood and detail the life cycle of trees. Pam Farris’ mosaics feature everything from a tidal wave to a human rib cage. Both artists use their work to depict the…
At this deeply personal exhibit, refugees and immigrants from around the world (including Afghanistan, Brazil, Iraq, Ukraine, Syria, Congo, and Nigeria) will display photography and writing addressed to their pre-migratory selves. The work is part of a local storytelling program called Picture Me Here, which provides immigrants with the creative tools to wrestle with both…
In a creative juxtaposition of the industrial and the organic, Denver’s Mai Wyn paints nature-based landscapes onto metal materials. The oil paint compositions include landscapes such as Red Rocks Park or McNiece Lake in Ontario rendered on stainless steel. Each work considers our tenuous and constantly evolving relationship with nature.
Practicing photographers will come out of this three-day workshop at Rocky Mountain National Park with a plethora of new landscape shots. Photo artist Eli Vega will teach participants to view—and capture—surrounding lakes, mountains, and flora through an unconventional lens. Vega, who’s published three books featuring his own work, will help budding shutterbugs understand how to…
LoDo’s artsy new micro-district, the Dairy Block, boasts more than 700 original pieces from local creators. And you can meet the makers themselves during this immersive showcase. Take a self-guided tour as you chat with Andrew Ramiro Tirado about his lifelike sculptures and photography, and Molly Bounds about her colorful prints and murals. Afterward swing…
This past year, artists from across the country sent in their best encaustic paintings (read: work created using heated wax mixed with colored paint) to be judged by Denver artist Pat Aaron. This year, the three winners from that competition—including Colorado’s own Sheary Clough Suiter—will each spotlight eight to 10 pieces at this all-encaustic exhibit.…
Both Christy Lynne Seving and Laura McCracken’s journeys to this emotional exhibit started out shrouded in doubt. Apprehensive about her ability to draw realistic faces, Seving challenged herself to draw a face every day for 80 days, by the end of which she’d have an exhibition’s worth of new work. McCracken set out on a…
Jennifer Melton, one of the founding members of Zip 37 Gallery, enjoys using loud colors to illustrate her cartoonish paintings of everything from paper dolls to tropical wildlife. At this light-hearted exhibit, Melton will apply that signature style to acrylic paintings of dessert dishes. These appetizing pieces will pair nicely with the sweet treats served…
With so many Instagram-worthy landscapes in Colorado, it can be easy to overlook the mostly unseen processes that keep our state’s flora and fauna so stunning. This exhibit, featuring artwork made by adult students from Denver Botanic Gardens’ School of Botanical Art & Illustration, will detail the symbiosis between plants and pollinators. See paintings and…
Portland-based artist Damien Gilley enjoys crossing the line—literally. His work, which has been displayed everywhere from the United Arab Emirates to the Netherlands, manipulates intersecting and parallel lines to craft optical illusions and trippy, perspective-shifting experiences. At this immersive display, Gilley will use digital projections, stripes of vinyl tape arranged in 3D patterns, and reflective…
Leo Franco and Barbara Baer, two local sculptors and good friends, have admired each other’s work for years. Now, they’ll have the opportunity to share the same exhibit space during this combined show. Both will create large-scale abstract sculptures, but Franco will form his subdued pieces from exotic wood while Baer’s metal and plastic creations…
Local artisans take the stage at the Dazzle jazz club for this swinging spectacle. See 25 artists, including painter David Sockrider and fashion designer Carol Mier, selling their work as jazz melodies set the mood. An interactive community canvas and impromptu painting contest will round out the artistic extravaganza. Also, all of the profits go…
A photograph may say 1,000 words—but are they all true? This juried exhibition examines the complex and delicate relationship between the camera and reality. Richard McCabe, the curator at the Ogden Museum of Art in New Orleans, has selected 29 photographs by 10 different artists—seven of whom are Colorado-based—that blur "the lines between the real…
Experimental art often thrives because of its underground reputation, but this alternative festival is trying to ensure the avant-garde doesn’t go unnoticed. The multi-venue event—packed with a full month’s worth of experimental films, literature readings, and dance performances—will work off of themes inspired by oft-underrepresented groups. Expect art that explores issues of gentrification, the black…
Brick, metal, wood, and cement will be the canvas for heralded artists at this graffiti and street art festival. See work from more than 70 paint maestros throughout the RiNo Art District as you wind through colorful streets and alleys and also get the chance to interact with the participating painters. Attendees will even be…
Renowned international and local artists will be decorating the streets of RiNo all week for Crush. But this colorful class will give budding painters the chance to have their work presented alongside the professionals. Fort Collins spray paint wizard, Lindee Zimmer, will teach attendees the history of street art, as well as how to fill…
Support both local artists and land conservation efforts at this week-long public art exhibition. During the week, guests can observe painters, such as Denver native Judith Gilman create renditions of the scenery around them at different open acreage in Jefferson County. And if you like what you see, you can purchase those works during a…
Rembrandt is mostly known for his abilities as an oil painter, but the brush wasn’t the prolific Dutch artist’s only medium of choice. At this carefully curated exhibit, Denver Art Museum will showcase the 17th-century craftsman’s talent as a printmaker. More than three decades after his death, see more than 100 rarely viewed pieces—mostly prints,…
This 80-minute performance will ask audience members to consider deep-rooted societal issues they may be missing in their day-to-day lives. The Control Group, a multi-disciplinary theater group, will begin this immersive walking tour at the Stanley Market Place. Thespians will move through the retail space, as audience members interact with them and ultimately decide how…
New York artist Tara Donovan is known for creating art out of everyday items. At this unorthodox exhibit, expect to see grandiose designs from a sculpture made of plastic tubes to a giant wall covered with neatly arranged drinking straws. The repetitive action Donovan uses to create her work celebrates the way simple tasks (such…
After layovers at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and Space Center Houston, this interactive flight exhibit will officially land in Denver this weekend. Whether you are taking a trip to low-Earth orbit in a space elevator, designing your own supersonic jet, or piloting a drone into the eye of a hurricane, the myriad…
Admitting that you don’t understand a concept is hard for anyone, no matter the setting. But such confessions are encouraged during this thought-provoking program, which welcomes visitors with early-to-mid-stage dementia and their friends or family members to explore the available exhibits, such as the art of Damien Gilley and the Foothills Art Center: Origin Story…
The Lakewood Arts Council Gallery, a fixture of the 40 West Arts District, will turn 30 this month. And to celebrate, you can catch two month-long exhibits at the community staple. The first, 30 for 30, will feature 30 pieces—including everything from paintings to jewelry—made by 30 artisans and on sale for the affordable price…
Learn more about native cultures by experiencing tales of diverse people and histories from all around the world at this illuminating festival. Catch screenings of films and documentaries, such as Sweet Country, a tale about an Aboriginal man who works for a preacher in Australia. Along with the films, take in art exhibits and a…
Even avid explorers have never seen the soaring mountains and sweeping valleys of the West like this. During this imaginative exhibit, artists, including Boulder painter Virginia Maitland, will present abstract pieces inspired by Western hotspots such as Grand Junction and Escalante, Utah. Don’t expect to recognize the familiar landmarks, though. Swirls of neon and geometric…
Don’t get too close: The mesmerizing patterns California artist Damon Soule creates may make you feel like you’re being pulled into the canvas. His surrealist, abstract works feature colorful prisms that hint at a trippy, 3D world within the painting. At this comprehensive exhibit, 20 years worth of his pieces will provide a multihued experience.
Robin Cole’s idyllic paintings would look right at home in National Geographic. After displaying her work in multiple group exhibits at Gallery 1261, the Denver-born artist is tackling her first solo show with a collection of dreamy pieces. See her detailed paintings depicting wildlife scenes, including a deer lurking in a shadowy forest and a…
As a child in rural New Mexico, Virgil Ortiz was fascinated by famous sci-fi series such as Star Wars and Star Trek. Their fantastical elements transported the Puebloan kid to different universes, ones so compelling he still remembers the stories. That's why the potter and photographer decided to use motifs in Revolution: Rise Against the…
The news is full of tales about mother-child separation at the Mexico-U.S border and the plight of Syrian families, but those headlines don’t always spur us to take a look at the individual people involved. This moving exhibit hopes to change that. Immigrant artists from around the world will submit personal pieces for this show,…
The beer industry—and Colorado—lost one of its most influential leaders this past weekend when Bill Coors died at the age of 102. The overachieving entrepreneur helped transform Coors Brewing Company from a small brewery created by his grandfather, Adolph, to a Fortune 500 company. Kerry David's award-winning documentary details that growth, along with Bill's other…
Just in time for Halloween, the work of local artists Michelle Lamb and Claudia Roulier will help create this imaginatively dark exhibit that attempts to capture the mystery and nostalgia of going to the circus. Lamb's use disassembled machine parts and found objects to create pieces such as a hallowed-out carousel horse furnished with clockwork…
As a professional artist, life coach, and psychotherapist, Cyncie Winter knows that fear of failure can paralyze any creative—regardless of age, experience, or medium. She leads students through step-by-step workshops that equip them with tools to combat that anxiety. Join her for hands-on exercises—including five-minute writing sprints and “mind mapping,” in which participants sketch pictures…
In response to the modern political circus, Niza Knoll is bringing back her insightful Holy Moly show, which last ran in December 2016. In the previous iteration, Knoll curated artwork from across the country, such as crosses made out of television remotes, that focused on how religious themes permeated contemporary art. But this year, there’s…
Sarah Winkler used recent celestial events—the 2016 solar eclipse and the recent double supermoon included—as inspiration for some of her most recent works. But in order to create these pieces, the Morrison artist needed to understand the science of light and its role in creating the above-earth scenes. At this illuminating talk, hear Winkler talk…
If you’ve only snapped photos with your iPhone, this class is your chance to practice a variety of photography techniques you can use with an actual camera. To begin, Denver lensman David Townsend will detail technical methods such as picking the proper shutter speed, along with creative approaches, including how to pay attention to patterns.…
Until this month, City Park's Vine Street Pub & Brewery used its adjacent empty storefront as storage for extra grills. Now, the brewpub has transformed it into an installation area, called the Storeroom, which will allow artists to give the underutilized shop window a more meaningful purpose. Stop by the space's grand opening on Saturday…
It takes practice to be able to critically examine art. During this class, museum curators will use sculptures from Tara Donovan to help guests understand the techniques and creative choices the Denver artist used to make her pieces, which reflect life in the Rocky Mountains. The mental exercise will hopefully give you enough knowledge to…
After opening ATC Den a year ago, Laura Moretz learned that her great-grandmother had also started her own art museum in the early 1900s. The cross-century connection inspired her to learn more about her ancestor, who despite living in a social climate that didn't entirely value female contributions, shared a similar entrepreneurial spirit and love…
New York City and Los Angeles may have more cachet than Denver when it comes to posh clothing, yet it's the Denver Art Museum that has the honor of hosting the Western Hemisphere's first retrospective of legendary French fashion company House of Dior. (You can thank the museum's contemporary design, which fits the exhibit's avant-garde…
Just because the winter nights are some of the longest of the year doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to make them a bit brighter. To wit: Almost every part of Denver Botanic Gardens will be covered in LED lights for this holiday celebration. Head to the UMB Bank Theater—on the grounds at Denver Botanic Gardens—where…
A late morning stroll is the ideal way to explore one of Denver’s artsiest blocks. Tour the latest exhibits at local galleries such as Core New Art Space and Niza Knoll Gallery, but don’t forget to grab a slice of coffee cake or a mimosa provided at each gallery stop. After perusing the art—free of…
The December show at this shared, artistic workspace is the place for gift-givers to find wares for their quirky cousins and eccentric aunts. Forty of Art Gym's members will be hawking their handmade works at affordable prices, meaning shoppers can purchase painted or collaged greeting cards, ink and watercolor drawings, repurposed china and metal jewelry,…
Nearly three years ago, the folks at Colorado Photographic Arts Center realized that student photographers often struggle to build their resumés and exhibit work in non-university spaces. Thus, they started this biennial show to showcase the work of fledgling artists. Catch the work of 20 student shutterbugs from as far as Virginia Commonwealth University to…
German artist Heiko Mattausch is fascinated by the small ecosystems that spring up within cities. During this show, see eight impressionistic pieces from the craftsman that detail intimate street corners and small plots of nature in urban environments. The spaces included in the work are supposed to be nondescript, but many of them are inspired…
Instead of Christmas-themed art, Denver’s oldest cooperative gallery will spend the holiday season showing off the diverse talents of the 24 creatives that own and operate the space. So take a break from the Rudolph and Santa overload, and see pieces ranging from an acrylic work of the chemical makeup of an avocado by Denver…
Large-scale public sculptures from artist Matthew Hoffman are on display throughout the country. And this December, the Collective in Lafayette will be the latest locale to feature a new creation form the celebrated Chicago artist.The piece will remain a surprise until it is unveiled, but guests can expect Hoffman’s typical style of large works containing…
Whether you fancy yourself the next Picasso or just feel that creative itch, artists of all skill levels are invited to this party. Choose between assorted fabrics, paints, markers, and other supplies to create your masterpiece. Colorado Springs comedian Andrew Ingram will also be on hand to supplement your crafting. And at the end of…
Every year Art Gym Denver picks two young artists to receive their Create Award—an honor that allows the burgeoning creatives to participate in a six-month residency at the local space. At this thoughtful exhibit, this year's winners, Autumn Thomas and Allie Sutterer, will present the work they produced during their time in Denver. Check out…
To help veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health issues Colorado Photographic Arts Center (CPAC) designed a program to help teach them photography. At this show, five former military members will showcase their personal creations from the intensive, multi-month workshop. Join the lensman this Saturday at 5 p.m. for the opening reception,…
Even though this frenetic artist now calls the Centennial State home, his work recalls the history of his home country, Japan. Saito pours liquid bronze over small, wooden sticks to create casts—a technique that has ancient roots in Asia. Once the metal has cooled and set, he welds the pieces to form nest-like sculptures inspired…
To be an avid birder, you need to be comfortable catching glimpses of rare species for mere seconds. For this interactive exhibit, California artist Nina Katchadourian examines just how fleeting these moments can be by looping video footage of birds native to Aspen on tablet-sized monitors. Along main stairs up to the Aspen Art Museum’s…
More than 500 artists answered the Arvada Art Center’s call to submit artwork showcasing life and creativity in all corners of Colorado. The 154 pieces chosen for this extensive exhibit represent a range of mediums, including oil paintings of forests from Deb Komitor of Colorado Springs and puzzle-based video games by Denver developers Bearwarp. Guests…
Clyfford Still is most famous for his work as an abstract expressionist painter, but he also spent a lot of time exploring life through a camera lens. During this retrospective, guests can see 70 of the renowned artist’s photographs, which range from Still’s self-portraits to snapshots that served as reference points for his artwork. Curators…
Beginning this Thursday, Station 16 Gallery Denver will launch Smooth as Silk, an innovative exhibit featuring silkscreens and prints of famous Andy Warhol quotes. At this opening night celebration to kickoff the monthlong display, attendees can hear a 45-minute talk by curator and Warhol confidant Mark Sink. The Denver photographer will tell untold stories about…
Sometimes, the most engaging pieces of art happen because of experimentation. California artist Cheryl Ann Thomas decided she wanted to see what would happen to clay columns in a kiln if she made them too tall and thin. The end result was a surprising collection of abstract shapes created by the pieces collapsing in on…
As CEO of Coalition Snow, a ski and snowboarding outfitter, Jen Gurecki had first hand experience with the way women and nonconforming people are often an afterthought in the outdoor sports world. In order to better tell stories about the lives of such folks and their love for adventure, she decided to create Sisu Magazine.…
To celebrate the opening of her new exhibit, Jordan Casteel: Returning the Gaze, at the Denver Art Museum, artist Jordan Casteel will take part in this discussion led by local teens. Panelists from groups, such as the Art Students League of Denver, will be able to ask the New York-based painter about how she makes…
On February 4, the Chinese New Year celebration will usher in the year of the pig. The pot-bellied animal is a symbol of wealth and fortune in Chinese culture, but for the 60 local artists in this imaginative exhibit, what the animal represents is open to interpretation. Using only an eight-by-eight inch panel, the craftsmen…
Famous destinations such as the Eiffel Tower have been photographed again and again, making it difficult not to take generic shots of the highly trafficked locales. During this thought-provoking class, Morrison shutterbug Jordana Wright, whose images have appeared in the New York Times and Resource Travel, will discuss the philosophy behind good travel photography, including…
Tattoo art isn’t a medium you you often see at a traditional art gallery. But the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver will show that the craft deserves to exist in such a space with this exhibit from New York artist Amanda Wachob. See abstract designs that she has has used a tattoo machine to imprint…
Unleash you inner Picasso at this entry-level class for aspiring abstract artists. Avid painter and experienced teacher Chelsea Hart will take you through the steps of turning a blank canvas into a bold piece of art, from composition to choosing color palettes, while encouraging you to let loose and experiment. Bring your own brew or…
This exhibit will look to show that black-and-white photography isn't just a relic of the dark-room days. Put on by the Rocky Mountain Monochrome Salon—a local organization that supports black-and-white fine art photographers—this display will show off the snaps of ten artists, including Golden-based Jacqueline Webster, who specializes in historic processing techniques. With special lectures…
From sloppy kisses to wagging tails, there’s plenty to love about man’s favorite four-legged friend. View 30 pieces by the Art Students League of Denver that showcase such lovable pooches, including a watercolor painting of a furry yellow lab by Pam McLaughlin. Amid the myriad interpretations of dogs there’s sure be something that will deepen…
Did you know that Denver has its very own Vincent van Gogh expert? Local author (and surgeon) Irving Kaufman Arenberg has spent more than three decades learning about the life—and more specifically death—of the famed 19th century Dutch painter. In Arenberg’s latest book, a historical cold case murder mystery by the name of Killing Vincent:…
Although the real “Mona Lisa” is on display almost 5,000 miles away in the Louvre, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science will give Coloradans the opportunity to experience her mystery and allure up close. Examine a 360-degree rendering of Leonardo Da Vinci’s well-known portrait, and peruse more than 70 other replicas of his other…
If Downton Abbey and The Crown have failed to satisfy your Anglophilia, check out the 65-piece collection of British art donated to the Denver Art Museum after a four-year tour of the United States. The exhibit will immerse audiences in the people, places, and events that shaped England’s cultural history from 1400 to 1800. Included…
Mingle with the talented photographers and curators behind the Dairy Arts Center's newest exhibit at this illuminating evening. The collection, which runs through April 14, examines the intricacies of photography both behind and in front of the camera through pieces that range from behind-the-scenes shots from 90s sitcoms to brain-bending manipulations. The reception will kick…
Despite women's historic roles in cooking, only seven percent of head chefs and restaurant owners are female. This revealing documentary from filmmaker Joanna James takes viewers into the kitchens of some of the world's top female chefs—such as the two-Michelin-starred April Bloomfield—to explore issues surrounding women advancement in the industry, from workplace harassment to pay…
Instead of adding to the landfill, this Colorado artist came up with a creative way to utilize e-waste for good. At this forward-thinking class, teens will learn how to turn old computer parts into art, creating beautiful mandalas out of donations from Sparkfun electronics. Not only will they leave with their very own eco-friendly art…
Liminal space refers to something—often people or places—in transition or going through a transformation. At this thought-provoking exhibit, seven local creators explore how the theory relates to Latino identity. Whether its a painting from longtime Denver artist Frank T. Martinez or an eye-catching illustration from Alejandra Abad, an MFA student at University of Colorado Boulder,…
Each six-by-six foot fabric panel on display at this powerful exhibit features an interpretation of the Buddha. While every depiction show the religious figure in a peaceful, meditative pose, creeping flames appear to engulf each one. The imagery references the all-too-frequent self-immolations that take place in Tibet, the ancestral home of the artist, Tenzing Rigdol.…
Local artist BJ Briner acts as a peacemaker between expressionism and realism, merging the typically competing styles in her art. Now, thanks to an intimate class taught by Briner, her imaginative style will be accessible to amateur creators. During the course, Briner will impart concrete skills, such as her unorthodox style of layering techniques and…
Knitters, crocheters and general craft enthusiasts can head to Loveland for a jam-packed week of all things yarn. Boasting 90 workshops spread over five days, this fabric fest offers something for everyone: from workshops in Japanese Kumihimo Braiding to lessons from top-notch instructors like Knitty.com's Kate Atherley. On your way out, stop at the the…
This Thornton-based lensman's images of Bangkok Thammasat University massacre won him the Pulitzer Prize in 1977. Now, he's bringing knowledge gleaned from two decades spent in Asia to this informative event, where he'll share a short film he made in Saigon and discuss his recent return to Thailand. Aspiring photojournalists would be wise to heed…
If you think paper is immutably boring, you haven’t visited this arts and crafts mecca. Created in 2012 by local scrapbooking savants Susan Dorland and Sheree Reiners, this creative summit draws paper arts outfitters from far and wide to show off their stamps, dyes, and other arty wares. If you’re craft-shy, no fear: Classes and…
You’ll be surprised that the works in this impressive collection came from preschoolers to sixth-graders and not seasoned artists. At this annual display, kids will show off their 2D, 3D, and digital creations, with the hopes that one of the judges (graduate students from Metropolitan State University) will endow them with ribbons for their technical…
Have you grown fatigued of DC and Marvel mania? You’ll find the remedy at this nerd-centric spectacle, featuring 250 comic geniuses, illustrators, and even tattoo artists. Internet-famous stars, such as The Simpsons character artist Liz Climo, as well as local creators like Colorado Sun comic contributor Lonnie MF Allen, will show off their work and…
If Game of Thrones' return has re-ignited your dragon fever, learn all about the mythical creatures at this night at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. At this 21+ (read: boozy) event, you'll imbibe various cultures' folktales about the fire-breathing beasts, then get a chance to paint your own dragon egg (don't worry, they…
The sculptures at this exquisite exhibit are crafted with such life-like precision that it may be hard to believe they’re made of stone. Each of the works is a study in human form, such as Sassona Norton’s “An Hour Before Dawn,” with details so rigorous you can see the striations on the subject’s legs. The…
Like many artists, this world-renowned creator is inspired by what she sees: unordinary architecture, lush landscapes, exquisite flora. To achieve her awe-inspiring tableaus, Shinn captures a picture of something that draws her eye, like the crumbling side of a building, then renders it not with paper and paint, but fabric. Unlike other hyper-realistic works, all…
This provocative film screening aims to connect audiences with the voices of those living in the margins through two uplifting, thought-provoking stories. After learning the faces of transgender and gender non-conforming adults in the the photography exhibit To Survive on this Shore, settle in for two short movies inspired by the display's themes. The animated…
Forget the usual stuffy gallery opening: This art show celebrates Denver's talent with music, booze, and bar fare. View collections created exclusively for the event by five local artists, such as charcoal paintings from Michael Dowling, while munching on jumbo pretzels and homemade potato chips from catering company A Spice of Life. After, grab a…
Multi-disciplinary artist Niza Knoll knows about the insidiousness of intolerance. Her grandmother and uncles died in Auschwitz, and her father narrowly escaped Nazi-occupied Austria. Prompted by recent displays of prejudice, Knoll gathered 11 Colorado-based artists, including painters Michael Gadlin and Charles Luna, and asked them to illustrate the realities of hate. Their thought-provoking pieces will…
If you’re looking to add some local flair to your art collection, head to the largest juried show featuring solely Coloradans. Browse the works of more than 59 artists, from Denver oil and pastel wizard Desmond O’Hagan, to Littleton-based Melissa Cooper and her sculpted bronze birds. There’s ample incentive to shop this year: Not only…
In the wake of World War II, American homeware and toy creators turned to whimsical, childlike designs in an effort to lift the country out of a dark period. The result was a collection of postwar relics with playful colors, patterns, and shapes. At this eye-popping exhibit, see those high-art furnishings, including famed Hungarian-American designer…
If you look up from your phone this month and see an emoji smiling at you in real life, don't worry, you're not going crazy. They're part of a creative installation, created by Denver artist collective So Gnar, that will feature the silly icons. You'll be able to see the four artists work on their…
Similar to Andy Warhol's famed experimental studio, "The Factory," this gallery opening isn't your typical wine-and-cheese viewing. This innovative event features around twenty never-before-seen pop-art works by local abstract painter Kelly Degnan, plus interactive top-secret performances every hour that bring the audience and art together in surprising ways. During a raffle, you'll get the chance…
Whether you’re looking to turn your creative passion into a career or you’re a seasoned artist searching for inspiration, this enlightening convention will provide a window into the Colorado art industry. The two-day workshop will teach guests how to market and share their creations, with classes that impart knowledge about storytelling, advertising, and art as…
Whether you work an appetite up exploring Denver Premium Outlets' vibrant play area or perusing its bevy of stores like Kate Spade New York, there will be no shortage of nosh-worthy food to satiate it at this kick-off event. Find food truck delights like brisket-topped green chile mac n' cheese from The Bunkhouse Trailer and…
Featuring almost 200 artisans from around the state and country, you’re bound to find something that suits your style at this nationally renowned show. Visit the vendor booths manned by local creators like Denver-based Todd Perkins, who will show off his up-cycled guitars embellished with reclaimed wood, license plates, and Scrabble tiles. Once you find…
If browsing dusty museums and stuffy galleries leaves you yawning, you’ll find this titillating extravaganza provides a more engaging way to get your cultural fix. Marvel at this fantastical fest’s creative experimentations, like Colorado-based cellist Russick Smith, who will play soothing melodies from a tiny island in Breckenridge’s Blue River, or Denverite Scott Young’s neon…
A part of Lakewood's Inspire Arts Week, these special exhibits give patrons a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. Watch sculptor Annette Sapp take her stone bison sketch to six-to-eight-inch tall 3-D animals using hammer, chisel, and file to chip away at locally-sourced alabaster. If watching her work makes you curious about artists' muses, head…
Science and art seem like an unlikely couple, but they have a lot more in common than you'd think. The six artists in this eclectic exhibition grapple with the intersection of the two subjects in a slew of mediums, such as Angela Piehl's abstract oil paintings that evoke the sensation of looking through a microscope…
Over the past six decades, this Golden gallery has told the story of Colorado’s statehood through its inextricably woven locomotive past. Now, a commemorative retrospective will chronicle not only the state’s tracks, but the colorful saga of the institution itself. Expect lessons on the quotidien items that owe their invention to trains (like the first-aid…
This 250-piece exhibit is a testament to the variety of ways that light—in all its forms—plays an important role in art. See renowned photographer Ansel Adams’ Moonrise, in which the lensman employs his signature stark black-and white-hues to depict the moon ascending over a mountain, and Fred Wilson’s The Way the Moon’s in Love with…
This conceptual mastermind first made his mark in Colorado when he co-founded Drop City, an artist colony, in Trinidad. The art installation that he constructed in the town—a trippy geometric dome—is just one of his trademark experimentations with bold colors, dimensions, patterns, and shapes. At this retrospective, you’ll see decades of Richerts’ work, including his…
Not only is this June LGBTQ Pride Month, it also marks the 50th anniversary of the impactful Stonewall riots, a protest against police brutality and a pivotal moment in the gay rights movement. To commemorate, CHAC Gallery is presenting this powerful 30-piece exhibition, which will examine how LGBTQ and Chicano/a cultures intersect. You'll be privy…
Art aficionados looking to rub elbows with Colorado’s preeminent talents should look no further than this 200-person-strong market. Peruse wares from experienced creators, like Kim Harrell’s delicate silver jewelry and Theresa Haberkorn’s woodcut prints of iconic Colorado landscapes. If conversations with the makers leave you longing to learn how it’s done, sit in on one…
You might not be used to viewing art in the dark, but this 30-artist night of light installations will have you wishing every gallery was pitch black. Colorado-based new media creatives will show their best luminous pieces, for instance, David Quakenbush's innovative display where a viewer's body is recorded, abstracted, and projected onto a wall.…
Long before Lady Gaga and Katie Perry’s outlandish attire became red carpet staples, New Zealand’s international fashion, theater, and arts extravaganza was paving the way for off-the-wall couture creations. This traveling exhibit will showcase dozens of the 31-year-old contest’s most provocative designs, such as an intricate lobster-inspired garment complete with oversized claws, antennae, and moving…
Over the past year, this roving art installation has popped up in cities across America, aiming to showcase quirky, independent, and innovative local artists. Now, it's made it's first-ever stop in Denver, featuring over 25 area creatives selected for their non-traditional styles and talents, plus tunes from Mile High jazz band Chronologue. Hosts Rackhouse Pub…
Come treat yourself to a taste of Hawaii. As part of Artsweek Golden, the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum is hosting its own Luau to showcase its Hawaiian Quilt exhibit. These 28 hand-crafted quilts date back to 1890 and feature sprawling floral designs, turn of the century flags, and gorgeous needlework. Visitors can soak in the brilliant…
Sure, Auguste Rodin and Michelangelo were gifted with marble, but they’ve got nothing on Nathan Sawaya when it comes to everyone’s favorite building blocks: LEGOs. A former lawyer, the master of plastic will use the toy to create six lifesize human forms striking contemplative poses on Republic Plaza benches. The works might be museum–worthy, but…
For a journey through Denver’s rich African American arts scene, look no further than this immersive celebration. The Joda Village Compound, named after beloved Denverite and music teacher Adetunji Joda, will resonate with the beats of reggae and roots music, and booths will be stocked with African jewelry, baskets, and carvings. Don’t miss the First…
If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, but not the sweltering summer temperatures, take an excursion through this 16-artist showcase of nature-inspired paintings. The material stretches from open prairies to roaring seas, featuring Brian Sostrom’s hazy blue acrylic skyscapes and Adam Hall’s oil renditions of the tempestuous ocean. The large-scale landscapes are almost as…
If you love art, but don't want to visit the same galleries as everyone else in Denver, you can discover decades of history and culture on this jaunt through one of the city's most diverse and eclectic neighborhoods. Wander though the vibrant locales with archaeologist Lucha Martinez de Luna and Historic Denver board member Ean…
You might normally shy away from overwhelming data sets, complex tasks and tedious labor, but for the five artists in this three-installation exhibition, information is art. See the odes to technology, such as artist Jodi Stuart’s “Pseudo Morph,” a subversion of high-tech tools created by hand-making woven sculptures with plastic filaments intended for 3D printing,…
If you find yourself snooping around friends’ homes for design inspiration, this two-day architecture showcase is your guilt-free excuse to ogle gorgeous abodes. Take a self-guided tour of ten modern and historic houses in Telluride, each stocked with design-savvy artists such as local firm Sante Architects, painter Emily Ballou, and metals sculptor Keith D’Angelo. Drink…
Trade the fluorescent lights and endless aisles of Pier 1 Imports and HomeGoods for a stroll through Cheesman Park at this spirited outdoor market. The homeware fair will host artists from as far as Florida and California alongside Denver creatives like Linda Buckus and her glass-blown vases and Juni Margire’s ceramic coffee cups. Music from…
City folk that long for the days of drive-in movies may have finally found their urban equivalent with this nostalgic series, in which no-cost films are projected on the walls of the Dairy Block alleyway. Cinephiles can catch a new show every night for eight days straight displayed on the CTRL Collective Bridge Window, beginning…
While you won’t typically find tattoos in museums or galleries, skin is as worthy an artistic medium as canvas. See why at this imaginative summit, where you’ll find designs from over 100 marking masters, including Englewood’s Jymi Calkins and his geometric masterpieces and TV talents like Ink Master’s James Vaughn with his colorful Japanese-inspired works.…
Would your ideal society harvest corn or sweet potatoes? Would it have a greenhouse or a community center? Denver artist Becky Wareing Steele asked people from around the world to join her mini community, and democratically vote on decisions like these, with the results becoming the blueprint for her intricate clay diorama. With a Southwest-inspired…
While modern activism might burgeon on social media platforms, this community-led art initiative is taking advocacy back to its (grass) roots. The eco-exhibition, which is part of a nationwide project spearheaded by environmental advocacy group the Canary Project will feature handmade, Earth-minded posters submitted by amateur Breckenridge artists and strung up around the mountain town.…
Join Denverite Karen Roehl as she retraces her steps as an artist in her brand-new solo exhibition, “Unfolding.” As an abstract expressionist, Roehl often pushes into philosophical boundaries in her work, using her craft as an expression of self. You'll get to see the result of her process in a variety of pieces, from 6-foot…
Obscure or mainstream, contemporary or antique: all tastes are welcome at this classic fine arts show. Lovers of gem-studded jewelry can drool over Littleton-based Kim Arment’s opal and amethyst ornaments, while geography geeks will adore Englewood’s Brian Billow’s acid-washed-metal maps of Colorado. The 100-plus exhibitors and $25 million worth of art means that, no matter…
You might not consider your poster-packed childhood bedroom fine art, but this funky co-op is working to change that. The 12-member Secret Love Collective, which includes Denver-based multimedia creatives like Katy Batsel, will transform a room of the David B. Smith Gallery into a pink-filled fantasy, complete with fuzzy pom poms, pop-art emblazoned fabrics, and…
Husband-and-wife creative duo Josh Hailey and Brittany Schall are preparing to embark on a long-term road trip across the country. Before they leave, they'll pay homage to the two places they call home—New Orleans and Colorado—in this 12-piece mixed-media exhibit. You'll see the contrast between their varying art styles and the cities that have become…
Denver painter Trine Bumiller first became fascinated with Devil’s Tower, a mysterious 1,267-foot-tall butte in Wyoming, after painting a series of national monuments last year. Since then, she's drawn 2,000 sketches of the enchanting igneous tower—all of which you can peruse at this exhibition. After browsing the iterations of the formation, visitors will also be…
Colorado’s ephemeral wildflowers bloom only once a year, leaving flora enthusiasts wanting for their presence when they’re gone. Luckily, Durango-based herbalist Jenn Rawling is taking her botany bona fides to the canvas, and creating more than 15 acrylic paintings and linoleum prints depicting local plant life. Expect renderings of native Colorado nature, such as green…
Colorado native Rebecca Rosenberg’s new novel, Gold Digger: The Remarkable Baby Doe Tabor, is a true story about a young woman in 19th century Colorado who, after being abandoned by her husband and left pregnant and alone to take care of his mine, ultimately met a tragic end. In this one-hour visual presentation, Rosenberg will…
Denver artist Dan McCauley loves frequenting estate sales with his wife—but not just because he finds it fun. Estate sales are also where he finds inspiration for his art, in the form of 1940s and '60s-era vintage magazines. Working meticulously with an X-Acto knife, the multimedia creator spent months cutting out nearly a thousand ads…
A decade ago, Denver art critics Michael Paglia and Mary Voelz Chandler wrote a groundbreaking book that detailed the Centennial State’s contributions to abstract art. This retrospective will celebrate the chronicle’s tenth birthday and document the evolution of the genre, with the work of more than 100 Coloradans. You’ll be able to browse the works…
Most art hunters know the feeling of falling in love with a piece, only to find out it’s completely out of their budget. Lucky for price-conscious shoppers, the pieces at this low-cost fest are $150 or less. Seventy-five local artists will show their wares, accompanied by the tunes of Denver pop-rock outfit Wendy Woo, nibbles…
You can’t walk a block in downtown Denver without spotting an arresting mural or funky sculpture. Getting face time with the artists responsible, though—that’s far more rare. This inaugural fest, organized by Boulder graphic designer Skyler Sun, aims to connect graphic and visual artists, illustrators, and multimedia makers with everyday art fans. Hosted by one…
If you're looking to add some Colorado-made art to your walls, this creative bazaar is your chance to peruse and purchase works from burgeoning local artists. While shopping, you'll be privy to the tunes of Deejay Diabolic and have a chance to watch artists such as Pharoah 1 and Zehb paint murals live. Don't miss…
Denver artists Lares Feliciano and Bothe Kretsinger both have a major sweet tooth—which will become very apparent once you browse the dessert-inspired sculptures, animations, and designs in this sugary exhibition. Featuring stenciled images of creepy clowns and garish pom pom sculptures of ice cream and milkshakes, Feliciano and Kretsinger will show you that sweet can…
Before soda fountains were a McDonalds mainstay, the term was used to describe pharmacy counters where people would gather to sip on sweet milkshakes and bubbly pop. Boston artists Andrew Bablo and Helen Popinchalk are restoring one such watering hole—the Yucca Fountain—to tip their hats to 1950s nostalgia. Don’t miss opening night, when the newly-recreated…
Though she only lived to 22, Boulder-born photographer Francesca Woodman left behind an expansive body of work. This affecting exhibition will explore the enigmatic artist through mementos, photos, and letters collected by George Lange, her friend and classmate at the Rhode Island School of Design. Woodman’s own work, including her stark black-and-white portraits of women,…
When you think “artist,” you probably don’t imagine knitting experts and DJs—but maybe you should. This multidisciplinary display spans Longmont’s Main Street, and includes jewelry makers, dancers, poets and tye-dyers, both selling and displaying their wares. The all-encompassing bazaar is kid-friendly, with children’s book readings offered by the Used Book Emporium and free face-painting. If…
Fifty years ago, when the Apollo 12 mission launched, it carried with it a clandestine ceramic chip embellished with the scrawlings of six contemporary artists, including Andy Warhol and Robert Rauschenberg. Commissioned by American sculptor Forrest Myers and snuck onto the rocket by an anonymous NASA engineer, the tiny chip was the first art to…
Who are you? Where did you come from? These questions can evoke emotional responses from pride to shame, or even insult. These kinds of personal inquiries are the basis of this brand-new exhibit, which will challenge attendees' conceptions of migration, ethnic heritage, and the meaning of home. See over a dozen different artists, such as…
If you shed a tear at the beginning of Up or belly-laughed at Finding Nemo, you know that animation can feel real. Take a look at how those awe-inspiring movies are made at this scientific exhibition, where you’ll see how Pixar animators like Kureha Yokoo create 3-D characters, draw storyboards, and use parabolas to grow…
Spencer and Julie Penrose, founders of the Broadmoor Hotel, started the Broadmoor Art Academy in 1919 in hopes of creating an institution that would garner national esteem. The school delivered on that ambition by attracting legendary en plein air artists—such as John F. Carlson, George Biddle, and Mary Chenoweth—who wanted to teach while painting and…
While most art collectors hunt for rare, pricey pieces from acclaimed artists, Pueblo native Victor Keen pursues masterpieces by those with no formal training. Over the past 35 years, he’s gathered more than 200 works from outsider artists who have no connection to the art world, and now he’s sharing his collection with the public.…
The sun is continuing to rise later and set earlier, meaning we could all use a little more light in our lives. Leave that to Denver-based artist Scott Young, whose neon sculptures have glowed from the roof of Denver's Museum of Contemporary Art, on the walls of K Contemporary art gallery, at exclusive pop-ups in…
For a week, the ArtWear Biennial will transform Fort Collins into the fashion capital of the world—or at least of Colorado. After watching models don the latest trends on the catwalk at Lincoln Center, guests can peruse more than 300 pieces of covetable couture from across the country, including a snow-white wedding coat designed by…
You’re probably familiar with French impressionist Claude Monet’s mesmerizing paintings, but this showcase, the country’s largest collection of Monets in over two decades, is your chance to see them in person. The exhibition spans the artist’s 75-year career, including his early beginnings with traditional landscape pieces, such as “View at Rouelles, Le Havre,” to his…
If you're a fan of Renaissance art or want to learn how to tackle the traditional style, this demonstration is the perfect introduction to the classical methods. Two students from Real Academy of Art Colorado, Arielle Louvaris and Laine Michelle, will lead an interactive discussion and lesson focusing on the foundations of drawing or painting…
This eight-year-old pop-up exhibition started when New York-based artist Rachel Wilkins Blum grew tired of the male-dominated creative world. She aims to remedy the dearth of diversity with this 14-stop touring showcase featuring solely the work of underrepresented minority, LGBT, and female artists from across the country. You’ll get to see never-before-shown pieces, such as…
If you're looking for some heartfelt, handmade gifts to give to your loved ones this Christmas, head to this art show and sale featuring more than 100 Coloradan artists. With a selection including one-of-a-kind ornaments, woven silk scarves, hand-stitched stockings, appliqué clothing, and more, there's something special for everyone at this community-driven event. For those…
With roots in both indigenous and Catholic Mexican traditions, Día de los Muertos represents a collision of cultures. That symbiosis is embodied in the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center’s three-day celebration of the holiday, which begins with a live construction of a traditional Aztec altar by Denver artist Maruca Salazar, who grew up in Veracruz,…
Join JOHN ATENCIO for their Bridal & Diamond Event November 1-30. Romance your proposal with a special gift from John during the month. At John Atencio, each Engagement Ring and Wedding Band is uniquely inspired, hand-designed by John and carefully crafted using the finest materials and standards. As a Colorado native, John Atencio upholds a…
It’s hard to fully capture how picturesque Colorado is in the winter, but Boulder artist Howard Fogg’s detailed depictions of snow-dusted trains come pretty close. At this locomotive-centric exhibition, viewers can see the famed railroad artist’s scenes rendered in 3D. Colorado Railroad Museum modelers including Centennial State-based Todd Helmick will reproduce three of Hogg’s paintings,…
Duke Beardsley became acquainted with the stampeding horses and lasso-wielding cowboys he’d one day paint while growing up on a 1,000-acre cattle ranch in eastern Colorado. You’ll get to see those scenes in this 50-piece exhibition, in which the sixth-generation Coloradan will display works in the “aquaticos” style, a mixed media procedure that yields ice-cube-like…
Before Colorado became a state almost 150 years ago, the territory was harsh and dangerous, with Mexico and the United States fighting over the land. At this educational lecture, you’ll hear the story of one of the people—and one of the first women—who helped settle our state, Teresita Sandoval. Local activist and historian Deborah Espinosa…
Before Colorado became a state almost 150 years ago, the territory was harsh and dangerous, with Mexico and the United States fighting over the land. At this educational lecture, you’ll hear the story of one of the people—and one of the first women—who helped settle our state, Teresita Sandoval. Local activist and historian Deborah Espinosa…
In her photography, Moroccan-born artist Lalla Essaydi weaves her Muslim and American identities, depicting both the Western and Eastern influences that are prominent in Moroccan womens' lives. At this enlightening lecture, Essaydi will talk about her experience living Morocco, and now, the United States, and how both are translated into her art. By using traditional…
The materials this Colombian-born artist uses—dirt, corn, coins—might lend you to believe his art is low brow. Not so: his stunning installations have sold for upwards of $400,000 and garnered critical acclaim. At this multi-medium exhibition, Oscar Murillo will explore the consequences of globalization and cultural exchange in pieces such as “Industrial Park,” a sprawling…
Winter calls for steamy hot cocoas, ciders, and warm cocktails—and, of course, the perfect mug to sip them from. This pottery bazaar is where you’ll find the perfect drinking receptacle, including cups, pints, and goblets, made by members of the Arapahoe Ceramics Guild, as well as other handmade ceramic wares like animal-shaped vases, striking statement…
Beethoven wrote one to his “Immortal Beloved,” June and Johnny Cash exchanged them, and Oscar Wilde penned one to his star-crossed lover Lord Alfred Douglas. Colorado artists will keep the tradition of the love letter alive in this exhibit, where they’ll create and display odes to who—or what—they love using mediums of their choice, including…
There’s no need to trek over 1,000 miles to the Nevada desert for a mindblowing Burning Man experience; the Centennial State has its own fire-themed visual- and performing-arts bash. Like its cousin in the Black Rock Desert, this pyromaniac’s paradise is centered around an oversized, flame-engulfed sculpture—a steel mask created by Atlanta-based artist Ryan Mathern.…
Black Friday shopping trips may result in the best deals, but if you prefer a more relaxing (and stampede-free) consumer experience, hit up this eclectic market. Not only will your hunt for presents probably be successful—hundreds of booths stocked with homemade wares such as Yummy Lotus’ hot pepper jams and Knots’ hand-carved wood charcuterie boards…
