Editor’s note: This story has been edited to remove outdated information about Space to Create.

Founded in 2018, the Grand Lake Creative District is Colorado-certified hub for arts, culture and heritage. It is one of only 30 certified creative districts in Colorado, and the only district in Grand County.

Part of the district’s mission is to preserve the town’s authenticity and ignite its creative spirit, according to a news release. This includes constructing creative infrastructure such as the Space to Create work/living development, securing funding and offering traditional arts classes through Rocky Mountain Folk School.

“We’re working on continuing to build the creative vibrancy in the community resulting in further economic development with focus on the off season,” stated Alan Walker, president of the Grand Lake Creative District, in the release. “A lot of people are involved, and the town has been awesome in its support, and we couldn’t be more grateful. We’re excited for what’s ahead.”   

Read more about how the creative district’s current and future projects:

Town marquee represents the connection between nature and art

In partnership with the town of Grand Lake, the Creative District has spearheaded the installation of a new Town Marquee in Grand Lake’s Town Park.

Crafted by renowned Colorado artist Grace Noel, the totemic archway includes wild animals that call Grand Lake home, including elk, a fox, birds and fish. This archway represents the Ute creation story.

By “honoring the profound connection of the Ute people to this sacred land, the Marquee stands as a powerful reminder of the rich creative tapestry woven into Grand Lake’s history and serves as an inspiring welcome to all who visit,” the district states.

Creative Workshop Hub: preserving traditional skills

Thanks to a land donation from the town of Grand Lake, the Creative District is developing the Creative Workshop Hub, so artisans can have a place to expand their skills.

This project is a collaboration between the Grand Lake Creative District, Rocky Mountain Folk School, the Rocky Mountain Wooden Boat School and the Cowboy Trades Association.

The new Creative Hub will become a dedicated space for the Rocky Mountain Folk School and the Rocky Mountain Wooden Boat School.

The district says that the Workshop Hub is “poised to become the vibrant heart of the community’s creative energy and heritage.”

The Hub will offer hands-on classes in traditional trades such as wooden boat making, paddleboard building, wood carving and wood turning, to ensure the “preservation of these valuable crafts, and inspiring a new generation of skilled artisans.”

In addition, the hub will provide an emphasis on creating cowboy gear like saddles, boots, spurs and hats. Groundbreaking is slated for fall 2025.

Space to Create: nurturing the creative workforce

Looking towards the future, the Grand Lake Creative District continues its work on the Space to Create creative workforce housing project.

Supported by Colorado Creative Industries with design by MA Studios, this project will introduce live/workspaces to the community. The building will provide housing, plus a studio and commercial space.

“By providing a dedicated center for creativity, the Space to Create will not only foster artistic innovation but also strengthen Grand Lake’s year-round economy,” the release states.

The project is expected to break ground in late 2025 or early 2026.

Securing resources through grants

The Grand Lake Creative District states it pursues grant opportunities to fuel its commitment to fostering creativity and economic resilience within Grand Lake.

These funds enable the district to support a wide range of initiatives and projects. For example, the district received a $4 million grant through the Strong Communities Grant Program for Space to Create.

The district added that it is thankful for the financial support by the Town of Grand Lake for events and operations.

Amplifying Grand Lake’s creative voice

Grand Lake Creative District states its core mission is to shine a spotlight on the town’s vibrant artistic offerings and promote the town “as a premier creative and artistic destination for both residents and visitors.” To learn more about the Grand Lake Creative District, or to donate, visit GrandLakeCreativeDistrict.org.

To check out the latest class with Rocky Mountain Folk School, visit RockyMountainFolkSchool.org.