
First Friday Art Walk
A self-guided tour for the art lover in everyone!
Every first Friday of the month from 6 - 9 pm
The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) presents Downtown Fort Collins First Friday Art Walk™, a community fave of its series of signature business promotions. This monthly self-guided walking tour celebrates creativity, culture, and community in the heart of the city. From fine art to funky and eclectic styles, Art Walk showcases a diverse range of artistic expressions designed to entertain and engage art lovers and casual participants of all ages and backgrounds.
Are you an artist? Are you interested in displaying your work for Downtown Fort Collins First Friday Art Walk?
Please fill out this form to be added to the list of artists we share with Art Walk businesses.
*Please note: Artist selection is at the discretion of individual participating businesses.
Participating Locations
August Art Walk
Date: First Friday
Time: 6:00 – 9:00 pm
Location: Downtown Fort Collins, CO
Cost: Free!
Bas Bleu
Featuring
Bas Bleu Theatre Company
401 Pine Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Big Al's
Featuring Lia Walker, Patrick Caldwell, Amy Powell, and Richie Greene
Lia Walker
Patrick Caldwell
Patrick provides a wide variety of services including commissioned artwork, freelance graphic design and storybook illustration. He lives in the incredible area of Colorado know as the front range, in particular Fort Collins. He lives there with his highly entertaining fur-son, Whitaker the cat.
Amy Powell
Artist Amy Powell has been creating for nearly 20 years. She began her professional journey creating large scale oil paintings, but has become known for her intentional experimentation and is always evolving. Among her paintings, you can find a variety of portraits and animals as well as an array of abstract work. Her most recent creations have moved into an illustrative vein inspired by folk stories and mythology.
Amy’s art is all about expressing the depth of human emotion. Whether it’s a figure that depicts sorrow or mirth, or a non-subjective piece conveying grief and hope, she uses each brushstroke as an expression of her heart. Her themes are most commonly feminine energy and the serenity of nature. There is a story behind every piece, but also room for the viewers’ experiences to be brought alive as well. When asked about the inspiration behind a piece, Amy prefers to hear the story that the viewer wants to tell. She loves to feel the connection between herself and her audience when they bond with a piece.
Because of this, Amy loves collaborating with her collectors to create pieces that speak to their particular experiences. If you have an idea you'd love to see brought to life, please reach out and connect!
Richie Greene
Big Al's Burgers & Dogs
140 W Mountain Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Bookstore on the Square
Featuring
Bookstore On The Square
113 Linden Street
Fort Collins, CO 80254
CC's Flowers
Featuring Anne Rose and Shannon Mack, with live music from JT Stewart and the High Noon
This August at CC’s Flowers in Old Town, enjoy an immersive evening of art, music, and poetry.
Anne Rose of Settle Down Studio brings her signature watercolor and botanical monoprints to the shop, with work rooted in curiosity, connection, and place. Her dreamy landscapes and layered textures explore both memory and presence through vibrant color and delicate mark-making. Joining her is Shannon Mack, a multidisciplinary artist and muralist known for her bold, expressive compositions. Shannon’s work incorporated narrative and emotion, weaving together color, texture, and abstraction to celebrate community, identity, and the human experience. Stop by the Little Poetry Café, where poet and performer Riley Ann will type you a personalized poem on a vintage typewriter. Choose a theme from the menu and receive a one-of-a-kind piece of literary art to take home. The evening also features live music by JT Stewart and the High Noon. JT Stewart has recorded 4 solo records in Austin, TX as Justin Stewart. JT writes poetry every day, and all his music is available online or hard copy. In The High Noon he is joined by guitarist/vocalist Esten Mason. They both recently moved their families to Fort Collins, and met musically over 20 years ago in College Station, TX.
Explore original paintings, prints, mixed media works, poetry, and more, all on view at CC’s Flowers throughout August.
Instagram:
@SettleDownStudio | @shannon__mack | @littlepoetrycafe | @rileyannsound
Websites:
CC's Flowers
153 N College Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Center for Creativity
Featuring Vivian Lynn, MARiNA, Cece Sol
Artist: Vivian Lynn
Exhibition Title: VIVLYNN Art - Early Work
Gallery: Gallery A
Exhibition Statement: People interested in art recognize that every brush stroke of Renoir, Seurat, Kathleen Petyarre, Clifford Possum, to name a few, use each stroke or dab of their brush, to put together the parts of a story, a powerful story. I've studied these artist, and many more in my decades as a designer, painter, artist. In my many years living in Australia I became a student of Aboriginal art and folklore and my current work is now heavily influence by this concept of using a brush stroke, a point of paint, to create the work in this exhibition. Perhaps a new take on pointillism. My inspiration comes from photos from space, the natural world around us and the graphic lines in our urban landscape.
Artist: MARiNA
Exhibition Title: My Seoul
Gallery: Gallery B
Exhibition Statement: Art by MARiNA will be featured in "My Seoul" an artistic exposition of work from her personal experiences in Seoul, as an artist and as an observer of contemporary, traditional and historic Korean culture. "I share this body of work in the hopes of inspiring in the viewer, a desire to learn more about a city, a land, and a culture I love". Her exhibit will be from July 30 -August 3, 2025, in Gallery B, where she will also be available for questions during First Friday Art Walk, on August 1.
Artist: Cece Sol
Exhibition Title: Cece Sol
Gallery: Gallery C
Exhibition Statement:
Storyteller
When I paint
I organize
Colors
Shapes
Images
Ambivalent Space
Framing Ques*ons
Ques*oning Borders
The impact of Illusion
Enhanced by Abstrac*on
A Story about Make-Believe
And the Reality of Human Experience
Otherwise intangible
Ephemeral
Trapped
By
My
Timid
Tongue
Amenities: Soft drinks available for our underage guests.
Center for Creativity
200 Mathews Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Crystal Joys
Featuring Silver Lady Tarot
Seeking clarity, connection, or guidance? Silver Lady Tarot weaves 40+ years of tarot and healing wisdom into grounded, soulful readings for individuals, couples, groups, or events. Join us during August's First Friday Art Walk to experience her insightful readings in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere- perfect for a night of art, intuition, and community connection!
Readings available from 4 PM to 8 PM at Crystal Joys
Crystal Joys
123 N College Avenue
Suite 150
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Dandelions & Rust
Featuring
Dandelions & Rust
119 W Oak Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Doozie Jewelry
Featuring
Doozie Bespoke Jewelry Experience
200 A Linden St
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Edge Optics
Featuring Morel Eyewear, Lydia Cruz, Voulez Vous Bon Bons, Solana Jewelry, and Jes Creations
Join us for another fun-filled evening at Edge Optics as we celebrate local art, music, and community during the Fort Collins First Friday Art Walk! We will of course be featuring our very own Outer Eye Iris Photography along with the following;
Featured Artists & Vendors:
• Morel Eyewear – French eyewear collection
• Lydia Cruz – Stunning fine line art
• Voulez Vous Bon Bons – Elegant & delicious confections
• Solana Jewelry – Beautiful permanent jewelry
• Jes Creations – Handwoven fiber arts
Music:
We’ll have music setting the perfect vibe as you browse, snack, and connect!
Don’t miss this free and family-friendly night full of art, culture, and community vibes. Plus, it’s a great chance to explore the space, check out our eyewear, and support some truly incredible local creatives.
Edge Optics
121 Laporte Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Ent Credit Union
Featuring Laeryn Plankey and Kalianna Keels
Celebrate an evening of creativity, community, and connection at this month’s Art Walk at Ent Credit Union, featuring the handmade works of Laeryn Plankey and Kalianna Keels.
Best friends and artistic soulmates, Laeryn and Kalianna met while attending the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). After making their way to Colorado, they’ve built portfolios rooted in mixed media, textiles, and beadwork.
Join us starting at 6PM on Friday, August 1st at 243 N. College Ave. for an eclectic mix of pieces, welcoming ambiance and delicious snacks while mingling with fellow art lovers.
Laeryn's Instagram: @dollarbillorigami
Kalianna's Instagram: @the.lil.seamstress
Ent Credit Union
243 N College Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
EsScentuals
Featuring Blossom Bird Studio and handarbeit
Hoping to see you again this First Friday in August after our “no show” on July 4th. Follow your nose down our illuminated marble staircase into our 142bis gallerie where you’ll find an on-going show of works by Christina O’Neill of Blossom Bird Studio and fresh assembled “Italianate” ephemera paquets by Ute of handarbeit. Christina will have prints of her original watercolor and charcoal originals available for purchase.
EsScentuals
142 S College Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Gilded Goat Brewing
Featuring The J. Taylor Collection
The Gilded Goat Gallery proudly presents a unique collection curated by John and Saskia Taylor. The J. Taylor Collection offers a captivating glimpse into the past, inviting visitors to experience a world as it once was. Explore our eclectic mix of art, vintage advertisements, antiques, maps, books, and collectibles—all available for purchase at reasonable prices. Whether you’re searching for a distinctive gift, a personal memento from Fort Collins, or simply taking a nostalgic stroll, our Downtown location is the perfect destination to discover the ever-evolving catalog curated by John and Saskia Taylor.
Gilded Goat Brewing Company
132 W Mountain Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures
Featuring Echoes of the Red Era with live music by The Fort Collins African Drum and Dance Collective and Marimba Matatu
Free Admission & Live Performances!
Join us Friday night for free gallery admission and an evening of global rhythm and powerful storytelling. Explore Echoes of the Red Era, our thought-provoking exhibit on Mao-era propaganda, and enjoy live performances starting at 6 PM with the Fort Collins African Drum and Dance Collective, followed by the vibrant marimba sounds of Marimba Matatu at 7 PM. Don’t miss this celebration of art, culture, and community!
Global Village Museum of Arts & Cultures
200 W Mountain Avenue
Suite C
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Hutch Home Co.
Featuring
Hutch Home Co.
144 N College Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
La Boutique
Featuring
LA BOUTIQUE
216 Pine Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Locust Cider
Featuring
Locust Cider
200 Walnut Street
Suite A
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Mountain Standard Company
Featuring
Mountain Standard Co. Jewelry & Watches
157 N College Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Mugs Old Town
Featuring Helzer Vintage, Third Floor Vintage, and Foco Vintage with live music by Daniel Ondaro
Come walk, sip, and wander around Mugs Old Town this First Friday, where you’ll find live music by Daniel Ondaro (@daniel.ondaro) and a pop-up vintage experience featuring Helzer Vintage, Third Floor Vintage, and Foco Vintage. Enjoy great tunes and browse unique art and clothing. Vibes are free, cocktails and snacks for purchase!
Mugs Old Town
261 S College Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Museum of Art
Featuring Beyond Resilience, Angle of Draw, and When All is Said and When All is Done
The current exhibition at the Museum of Art is Beyond Resilience, featuring the work of Mona Bozorgi, Odette England, Melissa Grace Kreider, Marcy Palmer, Danielle SeeWalker, Shuyuan Zhou—artists who examine the enduring impact of patriarchy on individuals and culture. Rather than glorifying resilience as a virtue, this exhibition asks why resilience is so often required—and who is expected to bear it.
We are also featuring Shawn Bush's Angle of Draw and Justin Carney's When All is Said and When All is Done.
Museum of Art Current Exhibitions
Museum of Art | Fort Collins
201 S College Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Otter Shop
Featuring Ella Rowton of Dainty Droplet Designs
My name is Ella, I was born and raised in Fort Collins Colorado and have always loved art. I enjoy telling stories through polymer clay and bringing a tiny bit of nature and color in every piece I sculpt. It's always amazing to see a small bit of clay resemble a familiar scene and see what joy that creates in people. I try very hard to put everything I have in each of my creations and I spend many days on each piece. Some are weeks in the making. I’m always learning and new designs are always in my imagination. Bringing it all out in the form of sculptures is something I’m very thrilled to experience.
Instagram: @daintydropletdesigns
Otter Shop
151 W Mountain Avenue
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Petrichor Collective Studios
Featuring
Petrichor Collective Studios
131 E Lincoln Avenue
Suite C
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Sheri Lauren, Art
Featuring
Sheri Lauren, Art
201 S. College Ave
Suite 211
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Tellus
Featuring
Tellus
401 Linden Street
Suite 101
Fort Collins, CO 80524
The Crooked Cup
Featuring Danny Matriccino
For the August Art Walk, journey through the lens of astro/landscape photographer Danny Matriccino, whose work captures the awe-inspiring beauty of Earth and the cosmos. Blending a deep love for nature and outer space, Danny transforms night skies and rugged terrain into surreal, luminous visions that evoke both wonder and serenity. His photography invites viewers to pause, look up, and reconnect with the vast world around—and above—us. Explore more of his work on Instagram @dannymatphotography or at dannymatphotography.com.
The Crooked Cup
147 W Oak Street
Suite 101
Fort Collins, CO 80524
The Masonic Event Center
Featuring Liz Ortiz, Aleah Danae, Chelsey Greenwood, Minnie Lippiatt, Benjamin Hoaglund, and Jessica McKay, with live music by Billy Wissing
For August, The Masonic Event Center is celebrating First Friday Art Walk by offering food, drinks, and live music while hosting 6 featured artists displaying a diverse selection across multiple mediums.
- Liz Ortiz from Mad Hare Press will be showing off her eye-catching portfolio of pieces made through the fascinating process of print-making.
- Aleah Danae will be displaying beautiful impressionistic and design-focused paintings, talk to her about her live wedding paintings too!
- Chelsey Greenwood is showing off handmade mementos and curiosities created through resin casting.
- Minnie Lippiatt will be offering paintings that explore nature, the animal kingdom, and the use of color.
- Benjamin Hoaglund is featuringing his collection of dreamy oil paintings .
- Jessica McKay has a diverse set of artwork, wearables, and jewelry that utilizes inventive and eclectic mediums and methods.
We're also excited to enjoy the musical stylings of Billy Wissing, jazz guitarist, who will be providing us with some relaxing tunes throughout the evening.
As always, we will conclude the First Friday Art Walk with a tour of our 100 year old building. So come check out First Friday Art Walk with us and make this August 1st historic at The Masonic Event Center!
The Masonic Event Center
225 W Oak Street
Fort Collins, CO 80521
The Welsh Rabbit Cheese Shop
Featuring
The Welsh Rabbit Cheese Shop
200 Walnut Street
Suite B
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Trimble Court
Featuring Rachel Dawn Designs
Trimble Court Artisans has a beautiful new collection of jewelry on display for the month of August from local artist Rachel Stych of Rachel Dawn Designs. For over 15 years, Rachel Dawn Designs has drawn inspiration from the wisdom and beauty of Mother Nature. Rooted in the art of slow-made metalwork and natural gemstones, each handcrafted piece offers a minimalist reflection of nature’s raw elegance. Created in Fort Collins, CO, these designs invite wearers to connect with their inner radiance and celebrate their untamed spirit.
Trimble Court Artisans
118 Trimble Court
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Up'n Smoke
514 S College Avenue
Suite B
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Visit Fort Collins
Featuring Blue Moose Art Gallery Artists: Judy, Susie, and Stephanie
Come Celebrate at the New Fort Collins Welcome Center turns One on August 1st! Visit Fort Collins will be hosting three artists from Blue Moose Art Gallery, Judy Scherpelz, Susie Morey and Stephanie Cox. Each artist bringing a different style, from fiber arts, fused glass, and multimedia to unique conversations! There will be light refreshments and snacks to celebrate.
Visit Fort Collins
7 Old Town Square
Suite 100
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Walnut Creek
Featuring
Walnut Creek
222 Walnut Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Wayward
Featuring Alex Knox
Wayward will be featuring the work of Alex Knox this month. Alex is a graphic designer & illustrator from Fort Collins Colorado, with a passion for Pop Art & Street Art. He recently found a new passion for painting two years ago and has been working on a small collection of unique acrylic pop art paintings. Inspired by artists like Kaws and Banksy. Alex's art mixes the vibrance of bright color and silly ideas with a touch of darker undertones.
Wayward
256 Linden Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524
West + Main Homes
Featuring Bonnie Ward
This month West and Main Homes will be hosting Bonnie Ward, the artist behind The Bonnie Studio, a venture she launched in 2016, specializing in high-end watercolor pet portraits. Known for her meticulous attention to detail, Bonnie’s work captures the unique essence of each animal with lifelike precision. In addition to her pet portraits, she creates landscape illustrations inspired by her road trips and travels, bringing scenes from the open road to life with a distinctive, natural style. Currently based in Fort Collins, Colorado, Bonnie continues to craft one-of-a-kind pieces that celebrate both the bond between pets and their owners and the beauty of the world around us.
Light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided and the artist will be raffling off a free portrait.
Instagram: @thebonniestudio
RAFFLE INFORMATION: Please note that during the event ONLY (Friday, August 1st) Bonnie will be offering a raffle for participants to enter for a FREE unframed 9x12 watercolor single pet portrait ($150 value). Sign up will be at the event only and one submission per person. The selection process will take place the following Monday on Instagram.
West + Main Homes
1 Old Town Square
Suite 107
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Wolverine Farm
Featuring local muralists Allie Ogg and Chelsea Gilmore with live music from Anika Pyle
Join us at Wolverine Farm for the opening reception of "Rebellion", a new body of work by local muralists, Allie Ogg and Chelsea Gilmore, with live music by Anika Pyle (full band show). This collaborative exhibit is a collection of layered paintings as an homage to weeds and the wisdom we gain from their existence. The exhibit speaks to the tenderness of humanity, strength in community, and the adaptation and survival of hope. We are the weeds. We are the resistance.
Wolverine Farm Letterpress & Publick House
316 Willow Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524