Garden of the Gods Art Festival offers art with a heart

Wide-ranging art showcase returns to Colorado Springs May 16 and 17

By William J. Dagendesh

A popular arts festival known for its wide selection of creative and aesthetic eye candy returns to Colorado Springs next month, and the setting can’t be beat.

The 3rd Annual Garden of the Gods Art Festival is set for 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, May 16 and 17, at Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site. The event is an outlet for artists of all genres to showcase their creative art and wares.

About 150 artists and craftsmen from throughout the country will present paintings, pottery, sculpture and textiles in addition to a selection of contemporary and traditional arts. Medium categories include acrylic, clay, drawings, glass, jewelry, leatherwork, metal, mixed media, oils, photography, sculpture, textiles, watercolor and woodwork

Art lovers can expect to mingle with professional, juried fine artists and craftsmen. The artists solely represent the work they alone created, so visitors will discover an array of one-of-a-kind pieces and meet talented entrepreneurs. And, speaking with entrepreneurs is a great way to network.

However, the festival will offer more than eye-catching art as attendees also can enjoy live music against the backdrop of Pike’s Peak. Additionally, numerous kiddie activities will be offered – a real parent pleaser.

Another pleasing aspect of the event is that dog owners may bring their canine. However, the dog must be well behaved and kept on a leash. Dog owners are encouraged to keep their pooch close to prevent tripping hazards and to respect the artist's work. Canines easily startled by children or other dogs probably should stay at home.

Several art enthusiasts have praised the event for its creativity. In a Sunshine Artist Review, a mixed media artist wrote, “The location is absolutely stunning, and the organizers are clearly completely vested in the success of the exhibitors.” In the same review, a fiber artist added, “Wonderful show, professional management and lots of art buyers!”

Also in the review, a ceramicist wrote, “I knew it would be well-organized and of great caliber because it’s a Dash Events show. However, it wasn’t good, it was spectacular.”

More than 10,000 people attended the second year show, and the buzz surrounding the event makes this a promising option for artists to consider. The Colorado-based Dash Events, a company that specializes in art festival production and product marketing, is hosting the festival.

Ticket booths are located in two places. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors 65+ and military (must show ID / purchase onsite), and free for Rock Ledge members and children under 12. Admission proceeds benefit Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site. 

Attendees can enter the festival from the main parking lot of Rock Ledge Ranch or from the south side of the ranch near Chambers Way & Pike Drive, through the neighborhood. Free shuttle service will be offered from Coronado High School, 1590 W. Fillmore St., running 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. Drop-off and pick-up will be located at the south festival entrance only. 

To learn more, call 719-634-6666.