The Greeley Creative District, in partnership with downtown Greeley and Greeley-Evans School District 6, proudly presents the 10th annual District 6 & Friends Arts Walk. In celebration of Youth Art Month and Music in our Schools Month, this one-of-a-kind First Friday Art Walk showcases artwork created by hundreds of kindergarten through 12th grade students attending 30 District 6 and charter schools in the area.
Student artwork will be displayed at 25 locations, including businesses, restaurants and shops in downtown Greeley throughout the month of March. From 5-8 p.m. on Friday, March 6, the community is invited to enjoy receptions and live student performances to kick off the event. All ages are invited to attend this free event.
A map outlining the full itinerary can be found on the Greeley Creative District’s website. Artwork will be displayed at all locations. Live music and dance performances will be at the LINC Library (501 8th Ave.) and Greeley Place (1051 6th St.).
Now in its 10th year, the District 6 & Friends Arts Walk first began as an idea discussed during a teachers’ professional development meeting. Patti Paiz Jones spoke up, asking if others would like to help organize joint art displays for students. A core group of teachers, including Lauren McLaughlin Thurman, jumped at the opportunity. Since then, the event has grown over the years to include charter schools, UNC and Aims.
This collaborative event encourages young creatives, strengthens community ties and supports local business.
“Art is very important to a child’s growth. It can build self confidence, encourage children to think outside the box and analyze problems from multiple angles. Art connects people and cultures when words are not possible. Art connects students from all walks of life,” says McLaughlin Thurman, former District 6 art teacher, local artist and volunteer organizer of the event. “Many downtown businesses have been involved with the Arts Walk since its inception. They have built connections with the schools and students encouraging them to support local businesses in their community.”
“One of my favorite events that the Greeley Creative District puts on is the District 6 & Friends Arts Walk,” says Jessica Marshall, who serves on the Greeley Creative District board of directors and is a co-owner of Makers Mercantile & Studio. “I’ve been lucky enough to experience that from three different angles: as a parent, as a business owner and as a board member. It’s always fun to see the kids who are so thrilled to see their artwork in a real-life business, knowing all of the love and energy that’s poured into making the event successful.”
