Free, family-friendly event features the work of 260 artists, artist demonstrations and live music
By Stephanie Blake and Cristina Ceballo, Blake Communications
On June 10-11, 2017, in the West Washington Park neighborhood, the Art Students League of Denver (ASLD) will host the 25th Annual Summer Art Market, an event with 260 visual artist booths, artist demonstrations, kidART programming, live music and food and beverage vendors.
The arts festival, held between E. 1st Avenue and E. 4th Avenue and between Logan Street and Sherman Street, features a range of media, including ceramics, fiber arts, mixed media/book art, painting, drawing, photography, printmaking and sculpture. Admission to the event is free.
“We are thrilled to feature top-quality artwork by our faculty and members set among the leafy streets of central Denver for the 25th year,” said Rachel Basye, executive director, Art Students League of Denver. “The event provides an opportunity for us to highlight the work of our professional artists and students while engaging the community in a free arts and culture experience.”
ASLD’s professional faculty will offer three artist demonstrations per day, in a range of media, including book arts and mixed media, oil painting and hand-building ceramics. The kidART programming, sponsored by Delta Dental of Colorado, takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, giving children an opportunity to engage with free art projects such as Tooth Fairy Magic, Smiling Cheshire Cat and Wild Smile.
Mudra Dance, Mo Jo Mama Blues, Kicked to the Curb and several others will offer lively musical performances throughout both days, all in a community garden where people can relax under shaded umbrellas and enjoy food from vendors like Little Pub Company and drinks from Crafthouse. Crafthouse will provide artisan, premixed cocktails with fresh and natural ingredients, including the Paloma, Southside and Moscow Mule.
For images of last year’s Summer Art Market, visit here.
The Art Students League of Denver (ASLD) provides an inclusive art community where professional artists guide individuals of all abilities to reach their highest potential. Modeled on the famous Art Students League of New York, The Art Students League of Denver first opened its doors in 1987 with a handful of recognized artists teaching more than 100 students in its first year. Today, located in the historic Sherman School in the West Washington Park area at 200 Grant Street, ASLD engages more than 900 students a month with more than 200 noted artists who teach diverse fine arts classes throughout the year. A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, ASLD is supported by private donations, tuition, foundation grants, and the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District. For more information, visit asld.org or engage on Facebook or Instagram (@artstudentsleague_denver).