A Night of Color, Community, and Creative Curiosity: My May Art Walk Experience

There’s a special kind of electricity that runs through Downtown Fort Collins on the first Friday of each month — a blend of warm streetlight glow, the hum of footsteps, and the unmistakable pull of creativity. This May Art Walk was no exception, and for me, it carried an extra layer of meaning. It marked the first day of Art Week in Fort Collins — a citywide celebration of makers, imagination, and the vibrant arts community I’m grateful to be part of. I could feel that energy everywhere: in the crowds, in the conversations, and in the way people lingered just a little longer with each piece of art.

Welcoming Back a Familiar Favorite

This month was also my first time ever showing my work at Mountain Standard Company, even though they’ve been part of the Art Walk community before. Stepping into their space as the featured artist felt like entering a new chapter — warm, welcoming, and full of possibility. The room filled quickly, bright with curiosity, and soon the easels, canvases, and colors became part of a shared experience rather than a solitary one.

A Canvas for Everyone

One of my greatest joys was watching people gather around the community abstract canvas. Brushstrokes from strangers layered into something beautifully unplanned — a living reminder that art is not only made by hands, but by presence, curiosity, and courage.

Otters, Watches, and Wonder

Another highlight was seeing people discover the whimsical otter mini‑paintings displayed above the watch case. Their smiles, their laughter, their recognition of the playful nods to iconic art styles — those moments were pure joy.

Mountains, Sunbursts, and Shared Awe

At another moment in the evening, I noticed two guests quietly admiring the mountain paintings. There was a hush in that space — the kind of pause that happens when art pulls someone in. As an artist, those moments are everything.

A Table Full of Stories

My display table was filled with prints, phone cases, and small works — cats, dogs, rabbits, landscapes, and a few playful nods to famous paintings. I loved watching people pick up a print, tilt their head, smile, and say, “This one reminds me of…”Those moments are why I paint.

Scratch‑Off Surprises and So Many Winners

One of the most fun parts of the night was handing out scratch‑off tickets to nearly everyone who walked through the door — and watching their faces light up as they revealed their prizes. Free classes, discounted classes, signed prints, calendars, even personalized paintings — the room erupted again and again with tiny celebrations.

A Pocket Watch and a Conversation Starter

Another highlight was the small painting of a golden pocket watch displayed beside my framed sign inviting visitors to chat about custom art, slate paintings, or classes. Those tiny discoveries often lead to the most meaningful conversations.

Closing the Night With Gratitude

As the night wound down, gratitude settled over me like a final wash of color.For the conversations.For the shared canvas.For the community that continues to show up.For the simple truth that art connects us in ways words rarely can.

Here’s to more color, more connection, and more creativity — together.