Looking to shake up your events calendar? Look no further than the Affordable Arts Festival to stock up on new art for your space! Coachella is incredible, yes, but you don’t really take a piece of it home. Why don’t you try going to an art festival this year and get amazing art for great prices? 

What is Affordable Arts Festival

The Affordable Arts Festival partnered with the Arapahoe Community College Foundation to hold an annual event aptly named the Affordable Arts Festival, where they feature artwork from different artists and genres and make it financially accessible – with no art selling for more than $150. The event is held every August, for one day only, on the campus of the Arapahoe Community College in Littleton, Colorado. 

This festival was started as an initiative to impact people’s lives – not just those of the artists, but also the public. Jim DeLutes founded the event to let everyone have access to art and to allow artists to connect with their audience.

“We all know art can impact people. From the artist who created it to the patron who is moved by it, and finally, the impact it will have when displayed in the home of that patron…The artists are also impacted by seeing so many people enthusiastically buying their work. The hope of most artists is to share their creations with as many people as possible.”

The AAF also helps the community by giving out scholarships from the funds generated by the festival. 

“Over $250,000 has been raised since the show started in 2012 and we are so proud of the positive impact that those funds have on students who need some financial help,” DeLutes said. 

Why you should patronize arts festivals

The Affordable Arts Festival is not only a feast for the eyes, but also an opportunity to acquire unique and meaningful works of art directly from the artists themselves. Buying art from these vibrant events goes beyond owning a beautiful piece—it offers numerous benefits that extend to personal fulfillment, supporting artists, and fostering a deeper connection with the art world.

Direct Engagement with Artists:

One of the most significant advantages of purchasing art from art festivals is the direct engagement with the artists. Unlike traditional art galleries or online platforms, art festivals provide a chance to meet and interact with the creators behind the artworks. This direct connection allows buyers to gain insight into the artist’s inspiration, techniques, and creative process, adding a layer of depth and meaning to the artwork. Engaging in conversations with artists can enhance appreciation for their work and create a personal connection that makes the artwork even more special.

Access to Unique and Diverse Artworks:

Art festivals showcase a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, making it a treasure trove for art enthusiasts seeking unique and one-of-a-kind pieces. From paintings and sculptures to photographs and mixed-media creations, these events offer an unparalleled selection of artwork that may not be found elsewhere. Buying art from festivals provides an opportunity to own something truly special, supporting artists who often create exclusive pieces specifically for these events.

Curating a Unique Collection:

Buying art from art festivals allows individuals to curate a collection that reflects their personal taste and style. Unlike mass-produced or commercial art, festival-acquired pieces are often distinctive and carry a sense of authenticity and individuality. Whether building a collection based on a specific theme or simply choosing pieces that resonate with personal emotions and experiences, acquiring art from festivals allows buyers to create a collection that is a true expression of their identity.

Supporting the Arts and Local Communities:

When purchasing art from the Affordable Art Festival, buyers directly support the arts and the local communities that host these events. Artists invest considerable time, effort, and resources into creating their artworks, and by buying directly from them, buyers contribute to their livelihoods and artistic pursuits. Additionally, art festivals often have a positive economic impact on the local community, attracting visitors, boosting tourism, and promoting cultural exchange. By participating in these events and purchasing artwork, buyers play a vital role in nurturing the arts ecosystem and fostering a thriving creative environment.

How the Affordable Arts Festival Affects the Community

Here is some feedback from patrons, artists, and scholarship beneficiaries from the AAF:

“The deals are unbelievable! I was expecting to see small pieces of art but instead, there were large, impressive pieces that were marked down from $1,000 or $2,000 to $100. I bought way more than I had planned but couldn’t be happier.” -patron

“I sell more at this show in 3 hours than most of my 3-day shows” -artist

“Sometimes it can get tough and stressful but receiving this scholarship gives me motivation and reminds me why I am in school. It gives me a reason to keep going and to try even harder to do my best always, I want to be an example for my daughter.”-H.C., Scholarship Recipient

So whether you’re an artist or a patron who’s interested in being in the Affordable Arts Festival this year, you can contact them through their website, https://affordableartsfestival.com/aaf-buzz. Visit Affordable Arts Festival to spice up your year!