A Summer Evening at August First Friday

Art, music, and community came together at RiNo ArtPark for August’s First Friday Festival.

On August 7, RiNo Art District welcomed neighbors, artists, makers, and visitors to RiNo ArtPark for an evening centered around the people and creative energy that have shaped the district for 20 years.

The evening opened the latest chapter of that history with Welcome Back, RiNo Art District’s 20th anniversary exhibition. Spanning the RiNo ArtPark Gallery & Welcome Center and Truss House, the exhibition brings together more than 50 artists representing generations of RiNo’s creative community. Artists were on hand throughout the evening, reconnecting with longtime friends, meeting new audiences, and sharing the stories behind the work they selected for the exhibition.

Outside, the ArtPark lawn became a gathering place of its own. Local artists and makers filled the market with original artwork and handmade goods, while food vendors and the festival bar kept guests fueled throughout the evening.

Live music from Denver-based power pop and garage rock band The Mañanas and experimental musician Polly Urethane provided the soundtrack to the night, with yard games and plenty of open space giving people room to settle in and stay awhile.

The festival also offered a chance to see the RiNo ArtPark Welcome Center in action for the first time. The new space will serve as a home base for information about RiNo Art District, including exhibitions, artists, creative programming, events, and resources for visitors and the creative community.

First Friday Festivals are part of RiNo Art District’s nonprofit mission to support the artists, makers, and creative businesses that shape the district. By creating free opportunities for people to encounter art, meet artists, support local makers, and spend time together, the festivals help strengthen the creative community that makes RiNo what it is.

None of it happens without the people behind the scenes. Thank you to the volunteers who helped welcome guests, support artists and vendors, keep the festival moving, and make the evening feel like a community gathering. And special thanks to KeyBank, our presenting sponsor, along with our supporting sponsors and partners whose support makes this free programming possible.

All photos by Hoss Photography