40 West Arts is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization focused on delivering direct, positive impact to help catalyze the resurgence of the West Colfax Corridor—the historic heart of Lakewood—through the energy of arts and culture and the inspiration of creative enterprises.
Who We Are: We are artists, neighbors, business owners and students who believe the Arts enrich our lives and have come together at the intersection of the arts, historic neighborhoods, new light rail stations, a famous avenue, and a vibrant Arts college. Working with local entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and a passionate group of volunteers, we will continue to work toward manifesting a shared vision of energizing our community through the work, creativity and fun of an arts district.
Our Purpose: The overarching purpose of 40 West Arts is to give artists and creative enterprises a community-based resource for furthering their creativity and moving their entrepreneurial efforts forward. 40 West Arts provides artists and other creatives:
- A connection to a state-designated creative district
- A forum for social and professional dialogue with creative peers
- Galleries and other venues to show and sell their work
- A conduit to “Call for Artists” revenue opportunities
- Resources and services to help expand their creativity and their business
40 West Art's mission supports the advancement of individual artists and creative entrepreneurs as well as business and property owners in an historic corridor—and it helps to energize an entire community and contribute to a state-wide initiative to stimulate the economy through arts and culture activities.
The Broader Context: 40 West Arts is contributing to the renaissance along West Colfax. The West Colfax story is as vivid and varied as any in the country. It comes with its own lore—and a history rich in character and creativity. As the historic heart of Lakewood, West Colfax has seen both high and low times. Now, West Colfax is re-emerging from decades of economic challenges, and artists are the vanguard rallying behind both traditional and creative enterprises—and 40 West Arts is positioned to help support and sustain this effort. The renaissance is happening—right before our eyes.
The 40 West Arts mission supports the advancement of individual artists and creative entrepreneurs as well as business and property owners in an historic corridor—and it helps to energize an entire community and contribute to a state-wide initiative to stimulate the economy through arts and culture activities.
