A New Wave of Artists Takes the Spotlight at Cherry Creek This Summer
Catch them—and 255 artists from around the world—this July.
Photo: Courtesy CherryArts
Every full-time artist got their start somewhere. Denver-based nonprofit CherryArts has been committed for decades to being that somewhere for more than one hundred artists through their annual emerging artists program. For the second year, CherryArts has awarded $5,000 grants to five artists in the early stages of their career, who will join 255 established artists from across the U.S. and three other countries, at the Cherry Creek Arts Festival this July 4 to 6.
The 2025 emerging artists are:
- Eunjoo Kang, a ceramicist based in Mead, Colorado, who blends traditional Korean pottery techniques with freehand building
- Rachel Meyers Hefferan, a textile artist who creates large-scale abstract weavings inspired by her work as a shepherd in Fennville, Michigan
- Kristen St. Clair, a Denver mixed media artist who explores the intersection of history, culture and humanity through a unique blend of ceramics, resin and found objects
- Benjamin Stanford, a figurative painter based in Denver who works primarily with oil
- Tricia Waddell, a Denver textile artist who specializes in soft sculptures and wall pieces
Eunjoo Kang. | Photo: Courtesy of CherryArts
“As an emerging artist, I am honored and excited to be part of the Cherry Creek Arts Festival,” said Kang. “I am eager to learn, grow and share my artistic journey while engaging with the inspiring creatives who make this festival such a meaningful experience.” Learn more about this year’s emerging artists here and watch a short film about the emerging artist program here.
In its 34th year, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival is one of the preeminent annual cultural events in Denver and among the most renowned fine arts shows in the country. Last spring, the event won the prestigious Gold Grand Pinnacle Award for best festival from the International Festivals and Events Association. This year’s jury selected 260 artists, 64 of whom are exhibiting their work at the festival for the first time.
Photo: Courtesy Cherry Arts
“This year’s line-up reflects the innovation, diversity and excellence that make the Cherry Creek Arts Festival truly something special,” said Tara Brickell, executive director of CherryArts. The 2025 Cherry Creek Arts Festival includes free live music from a dozen artists, including a special performance from Cleo Robinson Parker Dance; free art activities for children at Creation Station; food and beverage offerings from more than 25 Colorado businesses; and the return of Student Art Buying.
DATES, HOURS and DETAILS:
This year’s festival is free and open to the public, as always and tickets are not required.
Friday, July 4, 2025: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., accessibility hour from 9 to 10 a.m.
Saturday, July 5, 2025: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunday, July 6, 2025: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Photo: Courtesy CherryArts
CherryArts is hosting an opening night party on Thursday, July 3, that includes a crowd-free shopping opportunity with a block full of artists, plus live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres and drinks. VIP passes are available each day of the festival and include air-conditioned comfort at the VIP lounge, complimentary valet parking, a VIP lunch and more.
Photo: Courtesy CherryArts
