Crested Butte Arts Festival Reimagines its Event for 2020

Photos courtesy of Crested Butte Arts Festival

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the Crested Butte Arts Festival (CBAF) has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s art festival to protect the health and safety of its attendees, artists and patrons. 

While nothing can replace the power of in-person events, CBAF Executive Director Chelsea Dalporto-McDowell and her board explored many options and are excited to announce that the festival will be hosting an online art auction experience—All in for the Arts—as an alternative in order to bring artists and art lovers together. 

With a mission to provide sustainable arts outreach programs, CBAF will host this virtual event with the featured artwork of over 60 juried artists. Starting July 31 and running through August 9, 2020, patrons, artisans, and those who simply love the arts will have the opportunity to place bids on art pieces—with proceeds going back to support artists and outreach programs in the community. 

Cheryl Mackey Smith, “Gentle Breezes”

“We want to reimagine our beloved festival as an opportunity to support artists in a time when a majority of them have lost their main income source due to festivals across the country closing operations for the season. The model of this event ensures that 80% of the purchase price of each piece goes directly back to the artist,” explains Dalporto-McDowell.

Each piece has a starting bid of 50% below its traditional retail price, providing a great opportunity for patrons to support the arts while acquiring a beautiful new addition for their homes.  

“Creativity is the mother of invention and in these unprecedented times, CBAF hopes that this reimagined concept will foster hope for its artists, patrons and community,” said Dalporto-McDowell.

For more information regarding the CBAF virtual art auction, please visit: crestedbutteartsfestival.com.

Carmel Walden, “Hudson’s Dream”