As the year begins to draw to a close, 40 West Arts is taking time to reflect on all of our accomplishments this year — and more importantly, to take a moment to hear the stories of our community that demonstrate the power of arts collaboration and celebration right here on West Colfax in Lakewood.

Colorado’s largest day of giving, Colorado Gives Day, is taking place on Tuesday, December 10,2019. On this day, thousands of people come together to support Colorado nonprofits like ours. When you donate to 40 West Arts, you’re helping us continue our commitment to creativity that inspires artistic experimentation for both the novice and professional and expands the creative, cultural, entrepreneurial, economic and physical vitality of our community.

We reached out to our community and asked them directly to share their impact stories with us.

Katy Casper, professional artist, regenerative gardener, and lover of roller skate dancing shared:

“I love how 40 West Arts District is transforming Lakewood, especially the West Colfax corridor, into a vibrant and exciting wonderland of artistic discoveries. Not only are they making positive impacts on the physical environment, but as an organization they are an excellent example of creative placemakers - building vital and joyful community through art. Personally, 40 West has provided several paid work opportunities and I am so grateful for how they have helped my career as a professional artist flourish over that past several years.”

Barb Pullin is a photographer and employee at Reed Art & Imaging. She shared her story with us:

“In August of 2017, Reed moved to the 40 West Art District and being an artist, I immediately became a member and got involved with 40 West. There are many opportunities for you to exhibit your artwork, volunteer, join 40 West Arts, join other galleries in the district, sit in on advisory boards and meet other talented & artistic people. I have a lot of fun too.

In the last two years I’ve juried and curated two of the gallery shows, helped come up with the yearly themes, participated in all the member shows along with many of the themed exhibits. I have made sales too. I hardly ever miss a First Friday and love to walk along the Art Line to all of the other galleries. I enjoy the camaraderie of the community.”

We were thrilled to hear that we’ve made a difference both in the lives of our artsits, as well as in the community members living here in Lakewood.

Thanks to the $1Million Incentive Fund from Community First Foundation and FirstBank, your donation goes further on Colorado Gives Day. To donate to us on Colorado Gives Day, go to https://www.coloradogives.org/40westarts/overview.

Or, beginning November 1, schedule your donation early!