Silverthorne, a vibrant Colorado community, is on the cusp of achieving a significant milestone: certification as a Colorado Creative District, a designation poised to unlock substantial economic and cultural benefits.
Over the past year, the town’s commitment to fostering a thriving arts scene, a cornerstone of Colorado Arts, has been evident through initiatives like bolstering the Art Spot Silverthorne Makerspace and enhancing the popular Sunday Maker’s Market. These sustained efforts have garnered widespread support and propelled Silverthorne closer to its long-held artistic aspirations within Summit County.
Established in 2011 by the Office of Economic Development and International Trade, the Colorado Creative Districts program serves as a vital economic development tool, specifically designed to stimulate job growth, increase incomes, and attract investments in a community’s unique cultural and creative assets. This state-backed initiative offers tangible benefits to certified districts.
Certification as a Creative District comes with a $10,000 grant, requiring a local match, and provides invaluable assistance from the Colorado Tourism Office in developing robust marketing strategies. Furthermore, the designation offers access to specialized economic data and strengthens the town’s position to acquire additional funding for cultural projects, paving the way for sustainable growth.
While some communities have reported significant positive outcomes from their Creative District status, Silverthorne awaits official word on its certification. Entertainment director Sydney Drake indicated an announcement was expected by the end of August, though potential delays are anticipated. Upon successful certification, Silverthorne would proudly join approximately 30 other Colorado communities, including esteemed mountain towns like Breckenridge and Steamboat Springs, in this prestigious program.
Amidst a period of revenue decline, art board member Cody Mendoza underscores the timeliness of Silverthorne’s pursuit, emphasizing the potential for certification to act as a catalyst for economic recovery. He highlights how other communities with similar designations have demonstrated improved business retention and quicker bounce-backs from economic downturns, suggesting a resilient future for Summit County’s economy.
Art board members also foresee the certification as a pivotal step in providing resources that will not only highlight local artists but also empower them to build more sustainable businesses, enriching the overall Community Culture. This strategic focus aims to cultivate a robust artistic ecosystem that contributes to the town’s overall economic vitality and cultural identity.
Board member Molly Datz believes the designation aligns perfectly with Silverthorne’s goal of establishing a more solidified downtown space. Council member Tim Applegate pondered the possibility of Silverthorne developing a distinctive, perhaps humorous, art piece to differentiate itself, drawing parallels to iconic urban installations like Chicago’s “The Bean.” The idea resonated with board members, who cited Grand Junction’s success in revitalizing areas with whimsical art.
The discussion extended to how art could reflect Silverthorne’s role as a gateway to the Western Slope. Council member Erin Young, a lifelong resident, recalled a time when art was virtually absent in Silverthorne decades ago, noting how its gradual introduction in the 2000s significantly solidified the town’s identity and fostered a greater sense of community culture gathering. She passionately articulated how art creates both physical and emotional safety, underscoring its profound impact beyond aesthetics.
Leave a Reply