Sarah Ehrlich
The Paw Print
The newest cultural event in Alamosa has arrived and will be here the first Friday of every month! Introducing the Art Hop, a collaborative effort of Adams State graduate students, community members, and local businesses to show and support new artwork to patrons entering their stores. Participating businesses include the SLV Brewery Company, Rainbows End Thrift Shop, Zanga Zanga Smoke Shop, Firedworks Gallery, and local artist David Montgomery’s studio. People are encouraged to stop by these places to appreciate the art of regional and local artists and to hopefully become more aware of the art and inspiration that comes from the beauty of the valley. In February’s opening, there was an open house at the Alamosa Presbyterian church, offering free wine and artful discussion, along with goodies from Milagro’s café. Afterwards, participants were free to roam Main Street, admiring art pieces and ice sculptures along the streets. The chilly weather didn’t seem to faze the art lovers, including myself. With camera in hand, I enjoyed documenting the art and the reactions people had for it. After a very insightful conversation and tour of the Firedworks Gallery, owner and artist Carol Mondragon expressed to me how excited she is for something like Art Hop to be happening. “I think it is a great idea to bring the artists and community together because this is how ideas turn into exciting change. We live in such a beautiful place surrounded by mountains, which connects us to this beauty making this the perfect match for creativity. I feel like the Art Hop will turn into something special because it is an exciting way to work with the art and highlight the artistic talent here. I believe this will bring the motivation to create a new movement towards making this a special place to gather and grow in a creative way.” It’s easy to see where the inspiration for all the art comes from. Each place of business has a different theme of art that can be engaging to anybody’s artistic palate. Catch beautiful floral and nature paintings at the Brewery, pop art of superheroes and black light art at Zanga Zanga, and sculptures and paintings of valley life and culture, as well as an a plethora of beautiful jewelry in Firedworks Gallery. Subjects of the paintings are focused mainly on nature and agriculture, as well as religion and popular media. As you walk through these galleries, you’ll notice many different medias of art ranging from oil on canvas to spray paint, and set pieces of jewelry to sculptures. Live music and dancing will also be an option to participate in. Not only is the Art Hop educational, it is also encouraging small business. As you appreciate the art pieces through downtown, you’ll get to see the unique places of business that are the face of Main Street and fan favorites among residents of Alamosa. Certain art pieces included in the Art Hop are available for purchase. The Art Hop is meant to be fun and serve as a rich, cultural event sure to please!
What’s Been Said…