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Valentine’s Day is still a couple weeks away, but the spirit of love has arrived early in Denver.
More than 30 artists are showcasing their fondness for the Mile High City in To Denver, With Love (opening February 2). It’s the first exhibition to be curated and overseen by the nonprofit Art District on Santa Fe‘s board of directors. “We were looking for a way we could show our appreciation and dedication to this city,” says Amy Phare, board president. “It was something we felt we needed to do to break down walls and show everybody that we’re wanting to collaborate and grow our creative community. [At a time] when our nation is so divided, projects like this are necessary to inspire and unite our city and restore hope.” That’s a lofty goal, but if there’s one thing all Denverites can get behind, it’s love for our city.
Originally envisioned as a four-day pop-up, the show has been extended to a three-week event. The artwork is primarily fine art and photography, but the scenes and themes they depict are as varied as the artists themselves. Some present Denver cityscapes or architecture, while others examine the people that make Denver such a beloved place.
There’s Brendon Chavez‘s painting of two men, with different skin colors, embracing. And Tamar Miller‘s depiction of the Front Range landscape in which the lines between sky, mountain, and earth are muddled. Both these artists are based in Denver, but entries came from beyond our square borders too. Unlike most gallery shows, if you buy a piece, the entire fee goes directly to the artist.
Your affection for Denver will surely outlast the February 22 closing date, though. Look out for a commemorative coffee table book featuring the works to be released in the spring. (Proceeds from those sales will benefit the district’s arts education programming.)
While you can’t gift the city chocolates and roses, supporting local arts could become your new February tradition: Phare hopes to make To Denver, With Love an annual event.
If you go: To Denver, With Love will be on display at ReCreative Denver from February 2 to 22. It’s free to view, and the doors will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. The opening reception is February 2, 6 to 8 p.m.
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