October in Colorado Springs means it’s Arts Month, when our local artists and musicians shine alongside the beauty of the changing leaves. As part of the monthlong celebration, the second-annual ArtPOP series will introduce you to new faces and places through a series of 20 pop-up performances and exhibitions located in unique, public venues. From aerial acrobatics at Garden of the Gods to a going-away party for all of humanity, the series has something to intrigue even the most seasoned art-community veteran.
“ArtPOP is a great way to celebrate some of the talented local artists in our community,” says Andy Vick, executive director of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region. “I especially love that many of the performances and activities take place in unexpected locations throughout the region.” ArtPOP is a collaborative project of the Pikes Peak Arts Council (PPAC) and the Cultural Office.
“We wanted there to be something for everyone so that members of the region could fulfill the purpose of Arts Month: to attend an arts event and experience something new that they normally might not,” says Laurie Wilson, PPAC board member.
This year’s 20 performances, exhibits and venues include a variety of hands-on experiences including a chance to conduct the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs. All of the events are free, and most are family-friendly. “Some of the events are also at iconic locations such as Seven Falls and Garden of the Gods,” says Joshua Butler, PPAC board member who spearheaded artist selection. “The blend of amazing local talent with iconic local landmarks and venues creates a unique dynamic that I do think is special.”
Wilson sees opportunity for transcendence in the event and lineup. “I personally hope that—in an era when this country is so angrily split in two—people will come away with a deeper appreciation about what we share in common: a knowledge that we are all creative and that there is beauty and commonality in the expression of art,” she says. “I hope people come away with hope and thoughts of possibility instead of continued division.”
To explore possibility and try something new, start with these highlights. Find the complete list of ArtPop performances at peakradar.com/categories/artpop.
Stoney Bertz
Oct. 6, 4-5:30 p.m.
GOCA 121, 121 S. Tejon St., Suite 100
Award-winning and local favorite hip-hop artist Stoney Bertz brings the beats to the gallery space at GOCA 121.
Chamber Orchestra of the Springs: Conduct the Orchestra!
Oct. 8, 6-7 p.m.
Ivywild School, 1604 S. Cascade Ave.
In this kid-friendly event, Maestro Thomas Wilson of the Colorado Springs Philharmonic and the Chamber Orchestra of the Springs invite families to an evening of patriotic and popular music—and a chance to conduct the orchestra. After learning a two– and four-beat pattern, anyone in the audience can take a crack at leading the orchestra. Participation is highly encouraged!
Live Tatooing With Fred Legarda
Oct. 10, 7-8 p.m.
Self Made Tattoo, 3444 W. Carefree Circle
Have you ever wanted to watch someone getting a tattoo? Fred Legarda will make a real-life model his canvases as he performs the art of tattooing.
Taiko Society
Oct. 13, 2-3 p.m.
Seven Falls, 6 Lake Ave.
The Japanese style of taiko drumming comes to Seven Falls. Experience the power of 16 drummers against the backdrop of the most famous waterfall in the region. But sign up quick—free vouchers will be given to the first 24 who register at eventbrite.com/e/artpop-2018-taiko-society-tickets-50878412702
Stacy Plays Piano
Oct. 14, 4-6 p.m.
Acacia Park, near Bijou and Tejon
Pianist Stacy Gery will perform an outdoor piano concert near the corner of Bijou and Tejon to share her journey of recovering from a brain injury and the power of music to heal. Expect inspiration.
Aerial Aura
Oct. 21, 2-3 p.m.
Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St.
Performing artists Emily Barber, Chris Wegert and Julia Angevine will twist and turn in graceful and powerful aerial acrobatics set against the backdrop of Garden of the Gods. Watch four or five artists perform on various apparatuses with question and answer sessions in between.
Catch a Concert
If live music is your preference, head for these shows along with those listed above.
Tejon Street Corner Thieves, Oct. 17, corner of Pikes Peak and Tejon (of course)
Roma Ransom, Oct. 18, Rico’s Café & Wine Bar
Redraw the Farm, Oct. 25, Triple Nickel Tavern
