By Holly Ward

For the first Friday of every month, starting at 5 p.m., Pueblo citizens can make their way downtown to the numerous art galleries for a free night of art appreciation.

First Friday Art Walk activities are organized through The Pueblo Creative Corridor under the Pueblo Arts Alliance. According to their website, “The Pueblo Arts Alliance is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote and collaborate in the development of the arts economy in Pueblo.” 

“The Pueblo Creative Corridor is a Colorado Certified District. It is focused around Pueblo’s three historic city centers: Downtown Main Street, Union Avenue Historic District, and the Mesa Junction. Each retains its uniqueness while providing an enjoyable stroll from one end to the other. The Creative Corridor hosts numerous programs, festivals, and creative events throughout the year,” said the Innovation & Outreach Coordinator for Pueblo Arts Alliance, Katie Magby. 

Magby does all the social media and advertising for the organization, working with gallery artists and coordinating their First Friday Exhibitions. Artists interested in submitting artwork for the event should reach out to Magby through her email, katie@puebloarts.org. Artists should watch for the organization’s Exhibit Open Calls, which are calling out to the public looking for artists to participate. Pueblo citizens can also become members of the Pueblo Arts Alliance and follow them on social media.

Their website states, “Pueblo’s First Friday Art Walk provides more than paintings, photography, fiber arts, sculpture, glass, and pottery. Many galleries and shops have special demonstration of ‘live art activities.’” 

The Pueblo Arts Alliance has two locations, one on City Center Drive and one on S. Grand Ave. Within their buildings for First Friday Art Walks are galleries filled with artwork from local artists, many of which are for sale.

According to Magby, the First Friday Art Walk began in 2007. 

“The First Friday Art Walk is a great way to stay connected with the community. It exposes local businesses, including businesses in the local creative community. More exposure to the arts in our area leads to more economic growth for those artists and small businesses,” said Magby.

Magby mentioned Liminal Space Gallery is putting out an open call for “Raised by Wolves” for April 2023. “This show is a partnership with one of our tenants, Slow Space Studio and CSU Pueblo,” she said. 

“I think one of the coolest aspects about these art walks are the opportunities for local artists to get their artwork out there,” said Danni Moran, a CSU Pueblo student who attended the previous event on Friday, March 3, 2023. 

Magby described the art, music, and dance to explore in Pueblo’s Creative Corridor. “Over an easily navigated area, the Corridor is packed with galleries, museums, street sculptures, fountains, cafes, cozy shops, and live music- all ready to challenge your imagination and inspire your visit.”

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