40 West Arts District has always been a conduit for bringing creativity into the public sphere. Everything we do is intended to connect artists to visitors and vice versa, from the exhibitions we hold to showcase individual artwork, to our major events where you can see everything from aerial artists to fire dancers, face painters to pop-up installations.

We connect you to the creative world and provide the space for experiences to play out.

Admittedly, our staff and board are still working through our process in this new era. In a time where it can be difficult to even remember what day it is, it can feel unimportant, trivial but now is the time to persevere. To keep creating.

Human beings are innately gifted with the ability to strategize, build, tinker and play. It’s funny, whenever we hear someone say, “I’m just not a creative person,” (and it happens weekly) we have to smile.

Being human means that creativity is already inside of us and so much of what we do that we don’t think of as ‘art’ well … IS. So keep cooking, gardening, writing, blogging, crafting, knitting, building, playing… making. The simple act of making is a gift onto itself and if your roommate or kiddo is the only one that sees it right now trust us, you are making a difference.

We wish you imagination and innovation during this time.

You’re human. You’re creative. Keep playing.

Below are some ideas worth sharing for bringing creativity into the world during this time. They’re all pretty awesome and we’re definitely inspired.

1. check out art tutorials from 40 West studio artist sean doherty

40 West Studios Artist Sean Doherty is publishing tutorial and process content on how he creates some of his most iconic works! Follow along to watch the magic come to life and learn the art of metal working.

2. enjoy free printable coloring book pages from fallen owl tattoo

West Colfax staple Fallen Owl Tattoo is challenging the world to continue to #FloodTheWorldWithArt through their free coloring book challenge! Pages created by their staff of tattoo artists. All they ask in exchange is you tag @fallenowltattoo when you’re done.

3. Social Distancing Teddy Bear Hunt

“The stuffed animals are appearing in windows around the world in global "Teddy Bear Hunts" for children — uniting neighborhoods and giving children an exciting, social-distancing-safe scavenger hunt activity during coronavirus lockdowns.” - USA Today. Read more and see how you can participate here.

4. Video Editing Project from Austin, Texas

Watch this poignant and powerful video from Big Flavor Films out of Austin Texas as they showcase how our world has changed, and banded together to stay safe, support each other, and have hope (maybe keep a box of tissues nearby).

5. #5280Rocks Art Abandonment group

#5280Rocks is painting rocks to "hide" around metro Denver and all of its neighboring cities to spread joy and brighten people's day. A community-building group meant to inspire creativity in all ages and energize people to explore the beautiful area in which we live. Visit their Facebook Group here to learn more.