Despite our smaller size, Durango, CO has an array of art galleries, programs, and activities. These galleries have a diverse mix of modern and contemporary art as well as folk with influences from Native American and Mexican cultures. There are plenty of local galleries to enjoy, street art such as paintings and statues, as well as classes like theater, photography, water color to take.
Performing Arts
The Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College is Durango’s largest auditorium venue with 600 seats and features state of the art lighting and sound. This building opened in 1997 and has hosted hundreds of concerts, community events, plays, comedy shows, panel discussions and much more. The Durango Arts Center (DAC) is a long-standing institution in Durango and offers theater space, art gallery, and studio spaces. They have an event calendar of their own outlining their exhibits, programs, and camps for all ages. Merely Players has been Durango’s non profit theater company since 1994 earning local, statewide and national recognition. Their archives of over 60 plays include titles such as Mamma Mia!, Mary Poppins, Man of La Mancha, Chicago, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Secret Garden, A Christmas Carol, and True West.
Street Art
There are many painted murals throughout Durango. These murals promote the history of the area, specific businesses, flora and fauna of Southwest Colorado, and have diverse cultural influences. Along with painted street art, there are many sculptures portraying performing arts and local activities to animals and larger than life pieces of nature. You can find many of these in downtown Durango and along the Animas River Trail.
Art Galleries
With over a dozen art galleries in Durango, there are many pieces of jewelry, paintings, sculptures, and other mediums to browse and purchase. Sorel Sky and Toh-Atin Gallery both have a wonderful collection of Southwestern and Native American art. Diane West and Studio & feature more contemporary pieces. Karyn Gabaldon Arts, Scenic Aperture, and Azul are all Main Street staples with stunning painting, photographs, jewelry, and more. Newer additions such as Create Art and Tea and the Art Room Collective at The Smiley Building add an artist’s haven with personalized displays, workshops, and community events. Durango’s Annual Spring & Fall Gallery Walks are an amazing opportunity to spend time at each of these local galleries.
Throughout the year, there are many classes and workshops at a variety of these locations. These events are open to the public and span a wide range of mediums from pottery to painting, and jewelry making to photography and offer an opportunity to learn a new skill from a local expert! Other workshops are more in depth and cater towards experienced artists expanding their talent.
Art plays a huge role in cultural expression and this is no different in Durango, CO. There is plenty to see and take home with you from Durango galleries and street art pictures! Please do not hesitate to contact Deven or Max about Durango’s art scene.
