50 Years of Art History in Salida

Did you know that in the 1970s and especially the 1980s, a handful of artists moved into downtown Salida and set up studios, galleries, and shops in the affordable buildings vacated after the closing of the Climax mine? It was a small but close-knit community that supported each other’s work, welcomed newcomers (especially after making it through a long winter), and over time, coalesced to organize and establish events like Second Saturdays, ArtWalk, and a Salida Artists group. Their efforts brought attention and business to the area, and in 1994, Salida was named in John VIllani’s book 100 Best Art Towns in America.

Their impact laid the foundation for the artist community and Creative District we know and love today. There are too many names to list here though we are hearing about all of the legends and are so fortunate that many continue to share their stories in person. The Creative District is working on compiling some history of artists in Salida and will share highlights with the community this June during ArtWalk. Our notes include over 50 artists, organizations, and galleries of that period so far, all of whom helped shape Salida’s unique culture and identity.

Thank you to Jack Chivvis, Linda Lovell, Paulette Brodeur, Jerry Scavezze, Susan Bethany, Mary Ann Bavaria, Ben Strawn, and Mike Rosso for coming to our recent coffee talk to share your stories. And to Earle Kittleman, Arlene Shovald, and Mike Rosso for providing many resources to help with this project.

If you have a story to share regarding the history of artists in Salida from approximately the 1970s to the early 2000s, please contact Creative District Community Engagement Coordinator Tina Gramann at tina.gramann@cityofsalida.com.