Durango is known for its vibrant art scene; art galleries, performance art venues, and public artworks. From contemporary and modern to traditional, Durango's art galleries offer a diverse range of styles and mediums to explore. Whether you're a seasoned art collector or just looking for a unique piece to take home as a souvenir, Durango's art galleries will captivate and inspire you. Let's take a closer look at some of the top art galleries in Durango.
Durango offers a rich and diverse art scene if you love art. From traditional art to contemporary pieces, the art galleries in Durango have something for everyone. Here are some of the best art galleries to check out in Durango.
Must-Visit Art Galleries in Durango
Whether you are a seasoned art collector or a casual admirer, the city offers an array of galleries, each with unique character and style. Here are some must-visit art galleries in Durango that should be on every art lover's list.
The ArtRoom Collective at the Smiley
The ArtRoom Collective is a vibrant community of artists in Durango located in the Smiley Building. This collaborative space houses several talented artists working in various media, including painting, printmaking, photography, and sculpture. The ArtRoom Collective is dedicated to promoting the arts in the community by providing a supportive environment for artists to create, exhibit, and sell their work. Visitors can browse through the colorful and eclectic collections of works, engage with the artists, and purchase original art pieces. The ArtRoom Collective hosts regular events, including First Fridays Art Walks and workshops, making it a dynamic hub of artistic activity in Durango.
Azul Gallery
Azul Gallery is a mixed media gallery with jewelry, glass, metal, paintings, home decor and functional artwork. Visitors can also find handmade and unique jewelry, glass, wall art, furniture, and functional artwork. The space is inviting and intimate, with natural light and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Azul Gallery regularly features new exhibitions and events, making it a dynamic and exciting destination for art lovers in Durango.
Create Art & Tea
Create Art & Tea in Durango is a unique art gallery that allows visitors to explore their creativity while enjoying tea. This welcoming space is filled with local artwork and features a studio where visitors can take classes and workshops in various art forms, such as painting, drawing, printmaking, and more. The gallery also has a cozy tea room where visitors can sip on different loose-leaf teas while enjoying the serene atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, Create Art & Tea is a beautiful place to explore your creative side and relax in a peaceful setting.
Diane West Jewelry & Art
Diane West Jewelry & Art is a delightful boutique gallery in Durango known for its beautiful, handmade jewelry and eclectic art pieces. The gallery showcases a range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, featuring works of many talented local artists. Diane West's signature jewelry pieces are crafted with precious and semi-precious stones, precious metals, and other unique materials. Her art pieces range from mixed media to oil paintings and are inspired by the beauty of the Southwest. Visitors can browse the beautiful collections, purchase unique wares, and even find their wedding rings.
Durango Arts Center
Hosting over 20 shows annually, the Durango Arts Center (DAC) is a community-based arts organization that provides a platform for artists and art lovers in the Durango area. The DAC offers various programs and events, such as art exhibitions, performances, workshops, and classes. The center features three galleries showcasing local and regional artists' works. The galleries offer rotating exhibits, providing visitors with a diverse visual arts, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. The center also has a gift shop featuring unique handmade gifts from local artisans. With its mission to inspire and enrich the Durango community through the arts, the Durango Arts Center is a must-visit art destination.
Earthen Vessel Gallery
The Earthen Vessel Gallery is a unique art space in downtown Durango that features contemporary and traditional handmade pottery and ceramics from artists all over the country. The gallery showcases an extensive collection of functional and decorative pottery, including bowls, plates, vases, and sculptures, emphasizing each piece’s unique beauty and craftsmanship. The Earthen Vessel Gallery also sells jewelry, paintings, and sculptures. The welcoming atmosphere of the gallery makes it a must-visit destination for pottery enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Karyn Gabaldon Fine Arts
In operation since 1980, Karyn Gabaldon Fine Arts is an elegant gallery in the historic downtown district of Durango, showcasing contemporary fine art from established and emerging artists. The gallery offers diverse paintings, sculptures, and wood carvings. Gabaldon, the owner, and curator, has a discerning eye and a deep passion for art that is reflected in the quality of the work on display. In addition to showcasing a rotating collection of exhibitions, Karyn Gabaldon Fine Arts has an exciting array of Asian antique furniture.
Scenic Aperture
Scenic Aperture is a fine art photography gallery located in Durango. The gallery features stunning landscape photographs from the Southwest and beyond, captured by award-winning photographer Frank Cormisar. The photographs showcase the beauty of the natural world and are printed using museum-quality archival paper and ink. The gallery also offers photography workshops and tours, allowing visitors to improve their photography skills. Scenic Aperture is a place for visitors who want to bring home a piece of the Southwest's natural beauty.
Sorrel Sky Gallery
Established in 2002, Sorrel Sky Gallery is a well-known art gallery in downtown Durango’s heart that showcases contemporary, traditional Western, and Indigenous art. The gallery displays a wide range of artwork created by established and emerging artists, including oil paintings, sculpture, jewelry, and photography. The gallery's focus on Western art reflects the region's rich history and culture. With over 6,000 square feet of exhibition space, the gallery has plenty of room to showcase its impressive art collection. Sorrel Sky Gallery also features art from former Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell (a citizen of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation).
Studio & Gallery
Since 2010, Studio & Gallery has served as a gathering space for Durango-based artists and their ideas. As an artist-owned institution, the gallery is committed to creating opportunities for local talent. The gallery features unique artwork such as paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and photography. The exhibits rotate frequently, ensuring visitors have something new to see. The gallery also hosts artist talks, workshops, and events throughout the year, providing an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn more about the artists and their creative processes. Studio & Gallery is a must-visit destination for art lovers looking to experience Durango’s vibrant and diverse art scene.
A Shared Blanket
A Shared Blanket in Durango, Colorado, is a premier Native American Gallery showcasing genuine art from various tribes across the U.S. Specializing in Navajo weavings, Zuni fetishes, Pueblo pottery, Alaskan sculptures, and more, it features works by renowned artists like D. Frank and Tommy Jackson. Every piece is sourced directly from the artist, ensuring authenticity. The gallery's knowledgeable staff offers insights into the art, artists, and cultural significance, also providing appraisals and custom requests. Their Interpretative Archaeologist enhances the experience by explaining the stories behind each artwork
Performance Art Groups
Durango has a thriving performance art scene, with several groups providing top-notch entertainment throughout the year. From theater to dance to music, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best performance art groups in Durango.
Secret Circus Society
Founded in 2018, the Secret Circus Society is a Durango-based performance art group known for its aerial acrobatics and circus-inspired performances. The group's shows are a fusion of theater, dance, and circus arts, featuring performers trained by some leading circus companies. Secret Circus Society's shows are a visual feast for the audience, with dazzling costumes and spectacular stunts. They perform regularly in Durango and other cities in the region and are known for their commitment to community outreach and education programs.
San Juan Circus
San Juan Circus is a performance art group specializing in aerial arts, acrobatics, and fire performances. Their talented pes bring a unique blend of skilrformerl, creativity, and energy to every show, showcasing their abilities on silks, lyra, trapeze, and other apparatus. In addition to their regular shows, they also offer workshops and classes for individuals who want to learn these circus skills. San Juan Circus is known for its electrifying performances that leave audiences in awe, making them a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Durango interested in circus arts or looking for a unique form of entertainment.
San Juan Symphony
Founded in 1985, the San Juan Symphony is a professional orchestra based in Durango, Colorado. The symphony presents a variety of classical music performances and educational programs to the Four Corners region. The symphony comprises over 60 musicians selected through a rigorous audition process, performing in various locations across the region, including in Durango, Pagosa Springs, and Farmington. The symphony's performances include classical pieces, contemporary music, pops, and family concerts. The San Juan Symphony also offers the community a range of educational programs, including the Music in the Mountains Conservatory for young musicians and the Student Concert Series for area schools.
Live Music Around Town
Durango has a vibrant live music scene, with numerous venues featuring local and touring bands throughout the year. The Animas City Theatre and The Balcony Bar & Grill are popular spots for live music, hosting everything from country and rock to jazz and blues. The Derailed Pour House and the Wild Horse Saloon are also great places to catch live performances. During the summer, Music in the Mountains, a classical music festival, occurs in various locations around Durango. With a wide range of musical styles and venues, there is always something to find in Durango's live music scene.
Public Art Around Durango
Durango boasts a variety of public art pieces, ranging from murals and sculptures to functional art installations.
Murals
Our town boasts a vibrant collection of captivating murals scattered throughout the town. These stunning public artworks breathe life into the city's streets, infusing them with color, creativity, and cultural significance. Each mural tells its unique story, showcasing diverse styles, themes, and techniques. From vibrant and abstract designs to realistic portrayals of nature and historical events, the murals in Durango ignite the imagination and leave a lasting impression. Exploring the streets of Durango becomes a visually enriching experience as these masterpieces create an open-air art gallery, celebrating the city's artistic spirit and enhancing its vibrant atmosphere.
Sculpture
Our town also has an enchanting collection of sculptures scattered throughout the city. These magnificent works of three-dimensional art captivate passersby, adding a touch of elegance and intrigue to the urban landscape. From bronze masterpieces to contemporary installations, the sculptures in Durango embody a diverse range of styles and themes, showcasing the talents of renowned artists. Whether it's a lifelike depiction of wildlife, a thought-provoking abstract creation, or a tribute to the city's rich Western history, these sculptures spark curiosity and inspire contemplation. Exploring Durango's streets becomes a captivating journey of discovery as these remarkable sculptures bring art to life in a tangible and awe-inspiring way.
Music in the Mountains
Music in the Mountains is an annual classical music festival in Durango featuring nationally and internationally acclaimed musicians. The festival includes various musical performances, from chamber music to symphonies and operas, and takes place over several weeks during the summer. In addition to traditional concerts, Music in the Mountains offers educational programs, such as workshops and classes, for adults and children. The festival is held in various venues throughout Durango, and it is a beloved cultural event that draws music lovers from all over the country.
Rocky Mountain UkeFest
The Rocky Mountain Uke Fest is an annual music festival held in Durango that celebrates the ukulele. This two-day event features workshops, concerts, and jam sessions for ukulele players of all skill levels. Attendees can participate in workshops taught by world-renowned ukulele players and enjoy live performances by ukulele bands from around the world. The festival includes an open mic night, a vendor fair, and a ukulele orchestra performance. The Rocky Mountain Uke Fest attracts ukulele enthusiasts from all over the country and is a must-see event for anyone interested in this charming and versatile instrument.
Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering
The Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering is a fun-filled annual event held in Durango, Colorado that brings together poets, musicians, and artists from all over the country. This event celebrates the rich history of the American West through poetry, music, and storytelling. Attendees can enjoy a variety of performances, workshops, and open mic sessions. This gathering is a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the American West’s culture and experience the art and traditions passed down through generations.
Durango Independent Film Festival
Looking to catch some flicks? Check out the Durango Independent Film Festival. It’s an event that celebrates independent cinema from around the world. This festival takes place in early March and offers various films, from documentaries to feature-length narratives, focusing on storytelling and originality. In addition to film screenings, the festival features workshops, panel discussions, and parties, providing an opportunity for filmmakers and film enthusiasts to come together and engage in dialogue about the art of filmmaking. The festival is a highlight of the year for both locals and visitors, and it is a must-attend event for anyone interested in independent cinema.
Durango Playfest
A lover of the theater? The Durango Playfest has you covered. This annual event brings playwrights, directors, actors, and theater lovers together to celebrate and develop new plays. This festival presents an opportunity to experience new and exciting work in its early stages, giving audiences a glimpse into the creative process of making a play. During the week-long festival, there are readings, workshops, and performances, culminating in public performances of fully-staged productions. The Durango Playfest is an excellent way for artists to share their work, collaborate with others, and receive feedback from audiences, making it a vibrant and essential part of Durango's cultural scene.
Autumn Arts Festival
The Autumn Arts Fest in Durango is a vibrant celebration of creativity and culture. Every September, the event showcases the works of over 100 artists nationwide. Visitors can browse and purchase unique paintings, sculptures, photography, and other forms of artwork. In addition to the art, there are also food vendors, live music, and other entertainment throughout the weekend. The festival is an excellent opportunity to appreciate Durango’s beauty while supporting local artists and businesses.
Conclusion
As you delve into the arts community in Durango, Colorado, prepare to be captivated by a world of creativity and inspiration. From the vibrant murals that adorn the city's walls to the magnificent sculptures that grace its streets, Durango pulsates with artistic energy. The arts here are not merely decorations but living expressions that breathe life into every corner of this charming town. As you immerse yourself in the beauty and talent that abound, you'll discover that Durango is more than a destination—it's a gateway to a thrilling artistic journey. So, come and explore, let your imagination roam free, and embrace the exhilaration of Durango's vibrant arts community.
