Article by Mel Ulle
One of my earliest and most cherished memories is visiting the Denver Art Museum as a child and being captivated by the Red Grooms exhibit. The colorful installations and larger-than-life sculptures sparked my imagination and instilled an appreciation for art from a young age. The DAM has consistently made art accessible to visitors of all ages throughout the years just as the Denver Center for Performing Arts has brought Broadway to our little town, just as Red Rocks has brought the sounds of the world to our beloved foothills.
I’ve always been mesmerized by the vibrant arts scene that thrives in our city. We are blessed with more than we deserve in a city of our size. The colorful murals adorning RiNo’s walls, performances at Buntport, the Bug, and Curious Theatre, our galleries on Santa Fe, in RiNo, Redline, the strange magic that is Meow Wolf, and the music scene that has launched greats like the Lumineers and the Fray. Lordy, we are so incredibly lucky. Our local artists enrich our community and fuel our economy.
But what are some of the forces working behind the scenes to bring us this joy and wonder? I thought I might highlight a few in case you ever want to send them a little note of thanks.
The Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, under the visionary leadership of President and CEO Gary Steuer, has been a driving force in supporting and nurturing the arts in Denver. This foundation recognizes the vital role that arts and culture play in fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. With a deep commitment to enriching the lives of Coloradans, the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation has provided invaluable financial support and strategic guidance to numerous arts organizations throughout the region.
Steuer’s dedication to the future of the arts is evident in the Foundation’s strategic initiatives, which prioritize access, equity, and sustainability within the cultural sector. By investing in organizations that promote artistic expression, educational opportunities, and community engagement, the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation has played a key role in ensuring that the arts remain a cornerstone of Denver’s identity and a source of pride for its residents.
Through their partnerships and collaborations, the Foundation has empowered artists, nurtured creative talent, and fostered a thriving arts ecosystem that not only entertains and inspires but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth and social cohesion. The Bonfils-Stanton Foundation’s unwavering support for the arts has left an indelible mark on Denver’s cultural landscape, solidifying its reputation as a vibrant and culturally-rich destination.
The Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) has been a driving force in shaping Denver’s thriving cultural and arts scene, thanks in large part to the exceptional leadership of Executive Director Deborah Jordy. This resident-funded organization, established in 1988, has played a pivotal role in nurturing and sustaining the city’s vibrant arts community through a unique model of public funding.
The SCFD has evolved into a vital lifeline for over 300 scientific and cultural organizations across the seven-county Denver metro area. By providing essential financial support through a small portion of sales tax revenue, the SCFD has not only ensured the longevity of these institutions but also made arts and cultural experiences accessible to all, fostering a more inclusive and diverse community.
The organization’s commitment to accessibility and equity has led to initiatives like the Free Days program, which breaks down barriers and empowers individuals and families to engage with the arts, regardless of their financial circumstances.
The SCFD’s support has also contributed to Denver’s reputation as a vibrant cultural hub, attracting visitors from around the globe and fostering a deep sense of civic pride. From the Denver Art Museum’s world-class exhibitions to the captivating productions at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, the organizations supported by the SCFD serve as cornerstones of the city’s cultural identity.
Under Deborah Jordy’s leadership, the SCFD continues to play a crucial role in nurturing Denver’s arts ecosystem, ensuring that generations to come can experience the transformative power of art and culture.
Colorado Creative Industries, a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, plays a vital role in nurturing and supporting the state’s vibrant arts and creative industries. With a mission to promote, support, and expand the creative industries to drive Colorado’s economy, and now under the leadership of Josh Blanchard, this organization serves as a catalyst for artistic expression, innovation, and cultural enrichment.
Through a range of initiatives, including grant programs, professional development opportunities, and strategic partnerships, Colorado Creative Industries empowers artists, creative entrepreneurs, and cultural organizations to thrive. By providing financial resources, fostering collaborations, and advocating for policies that support the creative sector, this organization ensures that the arts remain a vital component of Colorado’s economic and cultural fabric.
The importance of the arts in our community cannot be overstated. The world feels hard. It’s chaotic and overwhelming, but art provides a refuge, a place to express emotions, explore ideas, and connect with others on a deeper level. Art challenges us to think critically, sparks our imaginations, and inspires us to see the world in new ways. It has the power to heal, to unite, and to transform.
Beyond its intrinsic value, the arts also play a crucial role in our economy. Denver’s creative sector generates billions of dollars in revenue annually, attracting tourists, supporting local businesses, and creating jobs. Our thriving arts scene is a magnet for talent, drawing creative individuals from around the world to our city.
As a proud Coloradan, I believe that investing in the arts is an investment in our collective future and shared statewide creative ethos. By supporting organizations that nurture emerging artists, we are not only enriching our cultural landscape but also stewarding a thriving economy and a more connected community. Regardless of the challenges we face on the daily, art provides a beacon of hope, reminding us of our shared humanity and our capacity for beauty and creativity. I hope you might consider thanking those who are making all of this possible and tip your hat to the funders and partners who continue this creative legacy in Colorado.
Read Melanie Ulle’s monthly Making a Difference Articles at Urban Life Wash Park.
