La Veta Creative District: 2024 Year in Review
As we wrap up 2024, it’s inspiring to reflect on the incredible moments that have shaped this year for the La Veta Creative District and our community. From supporting local art to fostering connections through creative events such as the La Veta Writes monthly group, the opening of the Estelle Center for the Creative Arts, and amazing shows at the SPACe Gallery, this year has showcased our collective passion for art and culture. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights from this unforgettable year.
Spring Inspiration: Creative Summit Conference
We kicked off the year with a burst of inspiration from attending the Creative Summit Conference. Surrounded by creative leaders and thinkers, we shared ideas, discussed challenges, and left inspired with new ways to nurture La Veta’s unique creative spirit. https://oedit.colorado.gov/colorado-creative-industries-summit
Please contact us for more information at info@ lavetacreativedistrict.org
A Patriotic Summer: 4th of July Parade and Salida Circus
July brought the excitement of our annual 4th of July parade, with the Creative District taking the lead to highlight the importance of arts in our community. The parade was followed by the Annual Art in the Park, which was even more eventful with our sponsorship of the Salida Circus. They performed all afternoon, filling the town with energy, laughter, and captivating performances that delighted attendees of all ages.
The Estelle Center for Creative Arts
The Estelle Center for Creative Arts offers a beautiful, collaborative, welcoming space where creative journeys are cherished, and people experience self-discovery, self-compassion, and joy. For more information on their offerings, please visit their website EstelleCreativeArts.com
Supporting Future Artists: Summer Benefit Yard Sale
One of the year’s proudest moments was our successful Summer Benefit Yard Sale, where community members gathered to donate, shop, and support a great cause. All proceeds from this event went to the La Veta Schools Art Program, helping to inspire and support the next generation of artists in our community.
Art in Public Places: Sculptures and Installations
Throughout the year, our Art in Public Places initiative worked to be able to bring new art and sculptures to La Veta’s public spaces, with the goal of enriching the landscape with creative expressions that spark curiosity and joy. These installations will make art more accessible, bringing beauty and thought-provoking works into everyday spaces for all to enjoy. We hope to have our first installations set up in the first quarter of next year!
Celebrating Local Talent: First Friday Art Walks
In addition to public art, our First Friday Art Walks became a monthly tradition that brought the community together to support local artists and galleries. Each month, galleries opened their doors, showcasing new works and connecting artists with art lovers. These evenings strengthened community bonds, with residents and visitors alike coming out to explore and appreciate the talent we have right here in La Veta.
Holiday Cheer: 1st Annual La Veta Merchants' Holiday Fest
As we transitioned into the holiday season, we sponsored the 1st Annual La Veta Merchants' Holiday Fest, a joyous event that highlighted the town’s businesses and encouraged everyone to shop small. This new tradition brought festive spirit, holiday lights, and local crafts to the heart of La Veta, supporting our merchants and providing a memorable shopping experience.
A Warm Winter Solstice: Ringing of the Bells
To close out the year, we look forward to the annual Winter Solstice ringing of the bells. This cherished tradition brings us together to welcome the longer days to come and reflect on the year past. It’s a moment of unity and gratitude, a simple yet meaningful celebration of the community that makes La Veta so special. Join us on Saturday December 21st at 4:30pm at the gazebo in the La Veta Town Park!
Looking Forward to 2025
2024 has been a year of growth, celebration, and creativity. With every event, project, and gathering, the La Veta Creative District has worked to foster a space where art and community thrive. We’re excited to continue this journey in 2025, bringing even more opportunities for creative connection and inspiration to our town. Thank you for joining us, supporting us, and celebrating with us. Here’s to another vibrant year in La Veta!
As a reminder - Just What is Our Creative District’s Mission? And How to Use Your La Veta Creative District
The La Veta Creative District’s mission is to “inspire and cultivate our diverse rural community through the development of the arts and creative industries in La Veta.”
Creative districts contribute to our state’s economy through creativity, culture and the arts. The goal is to help increase jobs, incomes and investments in creative endeavors and creative spaces. All State of Colorado-certified Creative Districts must follow guidelines mandated by the state and have physical boundaries that must include their historic district and be easily walkable. Ultimately, our goal is to keep creatives here, and to lift our local economy by helping attract visitors interested in the arts and creative industry. If you would like more information on Colorado State Certified Creative Districts, please email us or check out this link: Colorado Creative Districts | Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade
Grateful for You: Acknowledgements for Supporting LVCD’s Work for Creatives
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following organizations, for their indispensable support makes our work possible: Colorado’s Office of Economic Development & International Trade (OEDIT) and Colorado Creative Industries; the Huerfano County Commissioners; the La Veta Library District; the Town of La Veta; the Spanish Peaks Business Alliance; San Isabel Electric; Basin Electric; Bachman & Associates Real Estate; as well as our incredible private donors, volunteers, and instructors.
Thank you for supporting creativity, creatives and La Veta Creative District! We wouldn’t be here without you! Please visit the website and our Facebook page to keep updated throughout the year.
susanlavetacreative@gmail.com to reach Board President Susan Hanneman
PO Box 1013, La Veta CO 81055
Missed an event this year? All of our events have been recorded. They can be found on our FaceBook page under “Videos.” Join our email list to keep up-to-date on upcoming events and special announcements.
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