SHOP local and support artists
There are many ways to shop local and support the arts. Look for your unique, artisan-made goods at local gift shops and art markets and think about a membership, subscription or class has great gifts that last!
There are many ways to shop local and support the arts. Look for your unique, artisan-made goods at local gift shops and art markets and think about a membership, subscription or class has great gifts that last!
Museum gift stores offer unique one-of-a-kind gifts, including items made by local artisans, that also support the cultural institution. Many metro area gift shops have expanded their online shops since the start of the pandemic. Some of the museum’s gift stores are also open to in-person shopping with limited capacity and/or timed reservations.
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Many art markets and crafts festivals are still happening this year, whether its online or outdoors! Hand-crafted gifts by local artisans are often sought after by shoppers looking for those one-of-a-kind gifts. Chances are there’s an art market in your community, and it’s a great way to support local artists and shop local to Share the Love.
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Art galleries provide another way to shop and support Denver metro and Colorado artists. The Denver Art Dealers Association has a local guide of art galleries offering a wide selection of visual art for every taste and budget.
Shop at one of Denver and Colorado’s Certified Creative Districts. With over 26 creative districts in the state, each creative district, whether urban or rural, is distinct with its own local flavor, offering shoppers unique finds and one-of-a-kind gifts crafted by local artisans.
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Finally, instead of big box shopping this year, live local and shop at your favorite neighborhood boutique or small business retailers, many who buy local and support local artists and creatives. Here are some additional resources to help you in your arts shopping.
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Give a gift that lasts! Support a local arts and culture organization and purchase a membership, subscription, class or tickets for a loved one.
Memberships help sustain many local cultural institutions large and small. It’s also a gift that keeps on giving, as the benefits of membership extend all year long, whether that’s access to popular exhibitions and attractions, or savings on tickets, classes, gift shop discounts and much more.
Give a gift to yourself and become a member of your favorite arts organization now, as well as give a gift of membership to a family member or friend. Keep the arts alive and ensure the arts endure by becoming a member.
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Many performing arts organizations and venues offer season subscriptions. While several have had to cancel their current 2020-21 seasons, they are looking to the future! Some organizations are offering subscriptions for their series of virtual programming and performances. Others are starting to offer 2021-22 season subscriptions with exciting opportunities ahead. If you value live dance, music and theater in your community then this gift is for you this holiday season and consider a performing arts subscription from a local performing arts company.
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You can also give the gift of arts classes or lessons. Art, music, dance and dance classes for kids and adults have never been more popular. While we are staying safely at home, many of us have started new hobbies or rekindled old ones. You can give the gift of arts classes this year, through local organizations, many of which are offered in both online and in-person formats in a variety of art forms.
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