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For CherryArts, the nonprofit that produces the Cherry Creek Arts Festival (July 4 to 6), turning the curious into collectors is the mission. That begins with programming that serves around 40,000 Colorado students annually. “We look at it as a full-circle deal,” says Tara Brickell, the executive director and CEO of CherryArts, which runs a mobile gallery, distributes art supply kits, and raises money that allows students to purchase pieces for their schools at the festival. “We’re out in the community, trying to get art to the masses and create new art appreciators and artists, to continue what we do at the big event.”
But even if your classroom days are behind you, it’s not too late to become a connoisseur—at least when it comes to your own decor. Which is why we asked Brickell to share her top tips for bringing a masterpiece home from the three-day shindig.
1. Do your research.
Of the 2,085 artists from around the world who applied this year, 260 were selected by a five-person jury to showcase their original, handcrafted works in 13 mediums. Online, you can filter the creators by the type of art you’re interested in, from ceramics to painting to fiber to metalworks. “There is art available at so many different price points, it can be accessible even with a modest budget,” Brickell says, adding that many artists offer payment plans. Check out the festival’s five grant-supported emerging artists—four of whom, including ceramic artist Eunjoo Kang of Mead, are from Colorado—to say you knew the up-and-comers when.
2. Make the rounds.
Especially on day one, Brickell says, the early bird gets the art: “Artists know that even though the show starts at 10 a.m., a lot of folks come early,” so they get out and man their booths in the cool morning hours. Use the festival map to plan your route, and bring measurements and photos of the space in your home—a bookshelf, a wall, a corner table—you’re hoping to fill. “Talk with the artists about what might fit best there,” Brickell says, including commissioned works. “Making that connection and learning about how and why they created what they did can really solidify your decision.”
Read More: The Guide to Buying (Locally Made, Original) Artwork
3. Choose wisely.
After you’ve visited a few artists, take a break to enjoy the festival’s other attractions, including a block of interactive kids’ activities (such as making Maori necklaces) and cultural performances (Cleo Parker Robinson Dance will perform on July 5), a main stage with live music, and dozens of food and drink vendors. But pay attention to which artworks your mind returns to. “That’s probably a sign it’s something that’s meant to be in your home,” Brickell says.
The Cherry Creek Arts Festival takes over Second Avenue, from Clayton Street to Adams Street, in Cherry Creek North from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, July 4, and Saturday, July 5, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 6. Entry is free. Tickets for the opening night gala (and sneak peeks at the work of 40 artists) from 5 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, start at $110.
