Sovereign Bodies Sacred Futures celebrates the rich and diverse history of the fight for LGBTQIA2S+ Liberation. The exhibition features artworks by Queer/Trans Black and Indigenous People of Color (QTBIPOC) artists and allies that envision liberated futures, draw connections between intersectional and global struggles, and honor Queer/Trans ancestors.

By celebrating QTBIPOC narratives of joy and resistance, Sovereign Bodies Sacred Futures offers a powerful counter-narrative to the hateful rhetoric that is fueling the ongoing attack on the rights of Trans, Queer, immigrant, BIPOC and other targeted communities.

The exhibition runs May 2nd - June 28th. Join us in celebrating the joy and resilience of QTBIPOC artists and communities at the exhibition celebration on June 6th during First Friday. The closing reception on June 28th from 5-8pm will feature a blessing of the space, performers and open mic.

Opening Night: Friday, May 2nd 5-9PM

Every five years, the Center for Visual Art invites MSU Denver alumni to submit their artwork for consideration and inclusion in an alumni exhibition. Reconnect 2025: MSU Denver Alumni Exhibition is on view May 23 – August 2, 2025.

Opening Reception: Friday, May 23rd 6-10PM

This juried exhibition showcases the creative range of alumni both near and far and includes work across all media. Juried by Rory Padeken, Vicki and Kent Logan Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at Denver Art Museum, the exhibition highlights the far-reaching talents of MSU Denver’s creative graduates. Featuring the work of 30 artists with graduation years ranging from 1973-2024, Reconnect celebrates the creative journeys and artistic achievements of the artists, fostering a meaningful connection between former students and the current MSU Denver community.

The Center for Visual Art (CVA) is the off-campus art center for MSU Denver, showcasing contemporary artists whose work sparks dialogue and creates pathways to change. CVA offers free admission to its exhibitions for everyone.

Banner Art by Jeane Michelle Warner Greene

Contemporary art is an ever-evolving conversation that transcends time, identity, and material. Current MSU Denver art students are woven into this dialogue, navigating the intersection of student and emerging artist. The work in this exhibition captures this moment of transition through an exploration of media as an evolving practice.

Presented in the 965 Project Gallery at the Center for Visual Art, Materializing Change was curated by MSU Denver students Bridget Ebert and Alyssa Williams.

Banner Art by Sadie Hughes

Niza Knoll Gallery presents “Not Another Black Art Show”, curated by Tyree Jones-Evans, on view May 30 – June 29, 2025, at 915 Santa Fe Drive. The show aims to create a space that abandons imposed meanings behind black art and embraces nuance within the work. Local artists Johnny Draco, Joseph Graves, Jazz Holmes, Tyree Jones-Evans, Angel Tirado and Devin Urioste will showcase sincere work to isolate themselves from racial expectations and show that their narratives lie far beyond what one month or one day could ever acknowledge. The public is invited to an Artist Reception on Saturday, June 7, 6 – 9 p.m., and to join the discussion during an Artist Panel on Friday, June 20, 1 – 4 p.m.

“Blackness and black history are inescapable lenses for black artists; this show makes no effort to deny those truths.” explains Jones-Evans, “The show does, however, decentralize expectational ‘black’ themes and emphasizes that said themes do not need to be included in the work for them to exist in the work. Nor do they need to be included for the work to be important. In acknowledging so, the superficial take that reduces artists to two-dimensional figures is eliminated, setting free the richness of invention, narration, and culture that lives within the artist. ‘Not Another Black Art Show’ thrives in miscellany, which silences the monolithic experience.”

The panel discussion will focus on the multifacetedness of black art. Artists will talk about how their black experience influences their practice, and how they navigate an industry that will always fail at keeping them in boxes.

Niza Knoll Gallery, located in Denver’s popular Art District on Santa Fe, specializes in intriguing conceptual exhibits featuring work by local and regional artists as well as private concerts, guest speakers and workshops. Regular gallery hours are Thursday – Sunday, 1 – 4 p.m., except for First Friday, 5 ¬¬– 9 p.m., and Third Friday, 5 ¬– 8 p.m. and Noon ¬– 3 p.m. during the Sundays on Santa Fe Art Walk which takes place on the final Sunday of each month.

Visit www.nizaknollgallery.com to view and purchase works online and for the most up-to-date calendar of events.

Banner Image : Joseph Graves “The Wildflower Between Us”

Step into a world of wonder and excitement with Novo Ita, the latest and 4th installment of Spectra Art Space's AWARD-WINNING, immersive experiences.

On this self-guided adventure, marvel at the botanical wonders and spectacular art installations as you uncover the story of Novo Ita through interactive puzzles, augmented reality and tactile exploration.

Created by local artists and makers, this all-ages experience is perfect for families & friends seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure!

Grace Noel Art's Wood Burning Art Class guides you through creating wood burned drawings on x2 wooden slices of pine. Class will be held in Grace's studio in the Denver Art Society and all materials are included with admission price. Class creations will be available to take home the same day.

All supplies are included with sign up fee! Beginner friendly? YES! All skill levels are welcome. Family friendly? YES! Recommended for children 14 years and older. We will be using wood burning tools that can cause injury by burn.

Please request accessibility needs in advance - email grace@gracenoel.art.

**Don't see a date and time that works for you? Email: Grace@GraceNoel.Art to schedule!**

Dates:
6/1 3-4:30PM
6/2 11AM-12:30PM
6/9 11AM-12:30PM
6/12 6-7:30PM
6/22 1-2:30PM
6/26 6-7:30PM
6/30 11AM-12:30PM

Opening Reception: Friday, July 11th 6-9PM

D’art Gallery Denver is proud to present NOW WE ARE SIX, an anniversary exhibition featuring the work of all 28 member artists. The gallery invites visitors to explore the diverse visions of their artist collective. From established professionals to emerging talents, each artist brings a distinctive voice and creative approach, coming together to form a captivating mosaic of expression that reflects the spirit of the gallery. With every piece, viewers may discover something new—an emotional connection, a surprising perspective, or simply the joy of artistic discovery.

Reflecting on the past six years, the gallery expresses deep appreciation for its patrons' support, its artists’ dedication, and the creative energy that has shaped its journey. D’art has evolved beyond a traditional gallery into a vibrant community where ideas converge, collaborations thrive, and inspiration fills the air.

The gallery invites the public to join in the celebration, honoring its past, embracing its present, and stepping confidently into the future. Together, the members of D’art continue to challenge conventions, push artistic boundaries, and uplift one another through the shared language of art.

Dwelling in Possibilities features an eclectic blend of ceramic sculptures, paintings, and mixed media works by four artists who reflect on how they make sense of the world through the creative process. Utilizing diverse approaches, the work invites us to consider possibilities that emerge when navigating the in-between spaces and tenuous boundaries between order and chaos.

The exhibit spans everything from geometric shapes to organic textures, where each artist engages with the idea that even the most seemingly unrelated parts, whether physical or conceptual, can converge to form something greater than the sum of their individual components. Step into this space where parts, pieces, and patterns come together in an ongoing dance of possibility.

The show features artists Laura Brenton, Katelyn Odenheimer, Emily Oldak, and Vicky Smith.

Opening Reception: Friday, June 13 6-9PM

Banner Image: Laura Brenton, “How Does Your Garden Grow?” 48 x 48.

Let's play with paint pouring!! Create x2 paintings using paint pouring techniques: the dirty pour and the tree ring pour. Join artist Grace Noel at La Alma/Lincoln Park Apr-Aug 2025, *all other dates and bad weather alternate location is in Grace's studio. Materials included with sign up fee!

Beginner friendly? YES! All skill levels are welcome, we will find a design for everyone.

Family friendly? YES! Recommended for children 14 years and older. Risk of injury from carving tools, they are sharp!

Please request accessibility needs in advance - email grace@gracenoel.art.

**Don't see a date and time that works for you? Email: Grace@GraceNoel.Art to schedule!**

Dates:
6/5 6-7PM
6/12 11AM-12PM
6/19 6-7PM
6/20 6-7PM
6/27 6-7PM
6/28 11AM-12PM

Let's make an art journal using a variety of materials included in the class sign up fee! This is a mixed media art class co-taught by both local Denver artist Grace Noel and Spark Alchemy's Lead Coach: Rhonda Skallan. Every class will be held at La-Alma Lincoln Park close to the recreation center and south parking lot - look for the rainbow stools!

*Alternate location for large groups and inclement weather will be at Grace Noel's Art Studio: 734 Santa Fe Dr, Denver CO.

Dates:
6/11 11AM-12PM
6/16 6-7PM
6/25 11AM-12PM
6/30 6-7PM

Create with Grace continues with the Flower Coaster Creation Class! For 2 hours, artist Grace Noel will help each student create their own personalized x2 coasters using dried flowers and epoxy resin in silicone molds. Join artist Grace Noel in her studio in Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe at the Denver Art Society.

All Materials are included with sign up fee. Creations are available for pick up 24-72 hours after class

Beginner friendly? YES! All skill levels are welcome, we will find a design for everyone. Family friendly? YES! Recommended for children 12 years and older. Please request accessibility needs in advance - email grace@gracenoel.art.

Don't see a date and/or time that works for you? Email Grace at Grace@GraceNoel.Art to schedule!**

Dates:
6/14 2-4PM
6/22 4-6PM

Create with Grace continues with the Resin Tray with Flowers art class! For 2 hours, each student will create their own personalized tray (4"x7") using genuine dried flowers and epoxy resin. Join artist Grace Noel in her studio in Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe at the Denver Art Society.

All materials are included with sign up fee

Beginner friendly? YES! All skill levels are welcome, we will find a design for everyone. Family friendly? YES! Recommended for children 12 years and older. Please request accessibility needs in advance - email grace@gracenoel.art.

Don't see a date and/or time that works for you? Email Grace at Grace@GraceNoel.Art to schedule a private lesson!**

Dates:
6/15 1-3PM
6/28 3-5PM

Do you just love the way dried flowers look in jewelry? This is a class to introduce you to the process of creating jewelry using dried flowers and more! You're invited to join artist Grace Noel in her studio in Denver's Art District on Santa fe to create your own piece of jewelry.

In this class we will learn how to:
- use dried flowers and crushed stone to curate a design in a metal facet or silicone mold
- work with a very intricate and delicate art form

Materials included in sign up fee. Beginner Friendly? Yes! Family Friendly? Yes! Children 12 -17 years old are welcome

Please request accessibility needs in advance - email grace@gracenoel.art.

Dates:
6/16 11AM-12:30PM
6/29 1-2:30PM

Waves of Hope: Whispers from the Deep is a collaborative and immersive art exhibition experience at D’art Gallery, at 9th and Santa Fe Dr. in the heart of the Arts District on Santa Fe, that showcases the splendor of the oceans, the challenges our oceanic ecosystems face, and solutions that can make a positive difference locally and globally. The exhibition runs June 19 – July 13, 2025, with an opening reception Friday June 20, 6-9pm. Additional events are scheduled, and all are free and open to the public.

This ocean-centric exhibition, Waves of Hope: Whispers From The Deep, is born from a heartfelt desire to raise awareness about the meaningful ways we can help the health of our oceans from here in Colorado. Even when we live a thousand miles away from the oceans, our daily decisions can have a positive impact on the oceans. 

Colorado is the headwaters for seven major rivers that flow into the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. How we live our lives can have a positive or negative impact on the water quality of these rivers that feed into the ocean providing nutrients and oxygen to the myriad of ocean life forms that inhabit these waters.

“Our actions over the next 10 years will determine the state of the ocean for the next 10,000 years.” – Sylvia Earl

The curator of this exhibition, Natalie Becker says, “It’s not just a collection of my own personal artwork. It is a joining together of over 20 talented Colorado artists that are providing their own visual statements about the Ocean.” 

Participating artists include: Chris Alvarez, Lyn Becker, Natalie Becker, Tamara Brody, Alisha Brown, Deborah Carlson, Elizabeth Carter, Daniella Chace, Susan Dallam, Denise Duker, Pamela Ferris-Olson, Elizabeth Fluharty, Terri Grady, Felicia Kutina, Joanne Lavender, Carrie Makenna, Chuck Mardosz, Laszlo Palos, Jenna Rose, Terri Sanchez, Iveth Schwebke, Gillian Scoville, Karen Storm, Phoung Ta, Trevor Thomas, Janeal Tyler, Paul Warmus, Jessica Wheeler

Location:
D’art Gallery 360 and Gallery West (Immersive Space)
900 Santa Fe Drive Denver, Colorado 80204

Exhibition Run: June 19 – July 13, 2025
Open Thursday-Sunday

Regular Hours:
Thursdays Noon-5 p.m.
Fridays Noon-9 p.m.
Saturdays Noon- 5 p.m.
Sundays 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Special Exhibition Events:
June 20 6:00-8:00 p.m. Opening Reception, Live body painting: Jessica Wheeler, Live entertainment: Elizabeth Fluharty
June 21 6:30-8:30 p.m. Poetry and Movie Showing
June 29 1:00-3:00 p.m. Sundays on Santa Fe, Live entertainment: Elizabeth Fluharty
July 4 6:00-9:00 p.m. First Friday Reception
July 13 1:00-3:00 p.m. Closing Reception

In "Natural Perspectives," artists Sandy Marvin and Nathan Dominik present interpretations of natural elements through their distinctive artistic approaches. Both artists draw inspiration from natural forms, translating them into abstracted two- and three-dimensional compositions.

Sandy Marvin creates mixed-media works primarily utilizing pastel techniques. Her paintings offer thoughtful studies of still-life compositions and natural landscapes, ranging from intimate examinations of specific elements to more expansive environmental views.

Nathan Dominik's three-dimensional sculptures feature detailed representations of botanical subjects and natural landscapes. His collection includes both figurative pieces and more abstract interpretations that maintain recognizable connections to the natural world. Several of his wall-mounted works offer varying interpretations depending on the viewer's perspective.

Banner Image: Sandy Marvin, “Golden Hour”

Create your own beach scene on an 11" charcuterie board using epoxy resin with artist Grace Noel in her studio! In this art class, we will create a beautiful beach scene on a charcuterie board that can be used in everyday life and special occasions. Plus you get to say "I made it!" when admirers inquire.

Materials are included with ticket price!

*Please note that due to dry times, you will need to come back the next day to pick up your creation

Beginner friendly? YES! All skill levels are welcome, we will find a design for everyone. Family friendly? YES! Recommended for children 12 years and older. Please request accessibility needs in advance - email grace@gracenoel.art.

**Don't see a date and time that works for you? Email: Grace@GraceNoel.Art to schedule!**

Dates:
6/20 11AM-12:30PM
6/21 3-4:30PM
6/29 4-5:30PM

Artists on Santa Gallery at 747 Santa Fe Drive kicks off Summer with an exhibition featuring mixed-media work by Iris Irene and Sarah Polzin. As neighbors in their on-site studios, they share an artistic kinship and initially bonded over their discontent with the way the world overlooks female creatives. “Wild Strokes | Rebel Bloom”, on view June 20 – July 13, 2025, brings together their distinct yet deeply connected styles into a visual dialogue that celebrates bold color, texture, and the fierce resolution of the feminine spirit. The show is a testament to the inspiration and power that blooms in community.

The public is invited to an Opening Reception during the Art District’s Third Friday Collectors Night, June 20, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., where they can meet the artists and tour their studios, to First Friday Art Walk: July 4, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., and to visit during regular gallery hours.

Irene works with a loose, expressive hand, letting abstract expression overlay the powerful figures beneath. Polzin intricately combines layers of multimedia paintings to build dimensional works of biophilic abstract realism. Despite no coordination of their work beforehand, the pieces for this show naturally align into a cohesive exhibition that highlights their differing processes while embracing vibrant palettes and themes of femininity and growth.

Polzin, a Denver local, hails from a family of artists and her artistic voyage has been profoundly shaped by her environment and upbringing. She received a BFA and Art Education degree from Metropolitan State University. And has since taught in a variety of adaptive art programs throughout Denver and Los Angeles. In addition to her fine art, Polzin and her sister work with their father in the world of sign painting, specializing in murals, gold leaf, commercial art, and installations. She can be found on at Instagram @sarah.r0se.arts and at www.stargazercreations.com.

Irene’s expressive, abstract paintings center on feminine figures and the emotional landscapes they embody. Her work combines bold color, layered texture, and intuitive process. Each piece becomes a ritual—an invitation to feel, reflect, and connect with the mysteries of being human. Also based in Denver, she has background in art therapy and holistic death care. Follow her on Instagram @irisirinestudios.

Artists on Santa Fe Gallery, 747 Santa Fe Drive, showcases the work of member artists ranging from sculptors and painters to printmakers and jewelers. Regular hours are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 11 am to 3 pm, Fridays and Saturdays, 11 am to 5 pm and Sundays, Noon to 4 pm, The building is also home to the working studios of 25 + artists. Visitors are invited to explore and discover this exciting and enduring creative hub. For more information visit www.artistsonsantafe.com.

Banner Image: Iris Irene, “Crown of Echoes”