Five fabulous steps to a more artful life

By Rachel Basye

“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”  — Thomas Merton

Would a splash of color brighten your humdrum routine? Most people believe they don’t have the time or resources for creative expression or artistic experiences in their lives. Here are five suggestions on easy and inexpensive ways to lead a more artful life:

Attend an art opening, exhibit or First Friday Art Walk. You don’t have to shell out big bucks or wait in line at the latest blockbuster exhibit to appreciate great art. Denver is home to a wide array of galleries and creative districts including galleries in the Golden Triangle, The Tennyson Cultural Art District and RiNo, in addition to Denver’s famous Santa Fe Art District. A complete list is available online
at denverarts.org.

Take a class or attend a lecture. The Art Students League of Denver offers a wide variety of courses at reasonable prices for artists of all abilities. We’ve got you covered with everything from ceramics and welding to watercolor and even creating art on your iPad.

Stroll through a summer arts festival. What better way to appreciate artistic talent than in the open air environment of a summer arts festival? Mark your calendar for the Downtown Denver Arts Festival over Memorial Day Weekend, ASLD’s June Summer Art Market in Denver’s Baker neighborhood and the Cherry Creek Arts Festival
July 4–6.

Gather some pals and host a ASLD “Creativity Uncorked” event. Enjoy wine and appetizers in our historic studio while a professional artist guides your creative process in a social and stress-free environment. Everyone leaves with an original work of art.

Take advantage of Denver’s Scientific & Cultural Facilities District Free Days. The Denver Metro Area’s publicly-funded arts district offers more than 100 days each year when museums and other civic sites are open to area residents for free. Check out the SCFD Free Days calendar online at ofcnow.co/freedays for a great way to explore Denver’s vibrant arts scene.

The Art Students League of Denver is an inclusive and inspiring art community where members of all abilities are guided by professional artists to reach their highest potential. Find more information online at asld.org.