Mayor meets with Friends for the Arts Walk

Art is alive in Downtown Colorado Springs.  On Wednesday, just after 5pm, Mayor Bach led a group of 50 people around downtown, looking at murals painted on public walls, for the first Arts Walk With Mayor Bach. The event was the brainchild of Jose Barerra, community volunteer and board member of The Pikes Peak Arts Council.  The group gathered outside the City Administration Building downtown and were greeted by the Mayor before the Walk.  Among those in attendance were Suzi Bach and her mom, Jose Barrera, Councilman Tim Leigh, Tom Strand, Willie Breazell,  Brianna Goodwin, Bryce Crawford, Edie Adelstein, Carmen Abeyta, Carrie McCausland, Donna Nelson, Bret Garman, Brenda Bonn,  Chelsea Hixon and June Waller.  With the help of Christina McGrath and COPPeR, Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region, a route was determined and walkers were on their way.

The group’s first stop was at the Terry Harris Judicial Building to see the mural on the west wall.

Enjoying the stroll

Mayor Bach talked about the importance of art in any community, not just to stimulate creativity but also to improve economic vitality. “By creating beautiful public spaces, public art can enhance the economic life of a community and is an essential part of any economic revitalization plan,” he said.  The Mayor enjoyed listening as the other people commented about art’s place in society, and how much they loved the murals painted throughout downtown. The Arts Walk wrapped up at Colorado Springs City Auditorium about an hour later.  Anyone can participate in the walks – just show up at the City Administration building and be prepared to take off at 5pm sharp!

Future Arts Walks with Mayor Bach will be held on July 25, August 29, and September 19.