Originally published in the Fall 2019 issue of Spoke+Blossom

For all the great reasons to visit Crested Butte throughout the year, this mountain town has an exciting new upgrade that will appeal to curious and creative minds from all over the world.

For more than 20 years, Center for the Arts has been committed to providing arts and cultural experiences that inspire and entertain all audiences, whether they call Crested Butte home every day or just for the weekend.

A brand new $20 million Center has just emerged, becoming the finest facility of its kind on the Western Slope and offering education and entertainment in performing, visual, literary and culinary arts. The new building has space to accommodate a diverse and plentiful schedule.

This space is also home to the Crested Butte Film Festival and the Crested Butte Music Festival. Visitors young and old enjoy a year-round schedule of live music, dance and theater performances as well as art exhibits, speakers and much more.

The design of the new building is distinctive, playing upon the surrounding natural beauty and recalling Crested Butte’s unique history.

Here is some more info on the exciting expansion:

• The 6,350-square-foot theater can fit 305 seated and 405 standing. The new building offers unparalleled views and a floor-to-ceiling glass wall framing Paradise Divide and Gothic Mountain.

• Along with a theater, the building also has multiple spaces like the Kinder-Padon Gallery that showcases individual and group art exhibits and installations as well as educational exhibits. In September, during a group show dubbed “Golden,” nine artists will exhibit art showcasing autumn’s splendor. In October, cast iron sculptors from around the country will gather at the annual Iron Pour event.

• Unique art workshops include everything from paper marbling and needle felting to henna designs, printmaking and journaling.• The literary arts are represented by workshops tailored to adults and children. You can even learn Haibun, a Japanese literary form that pairs prose with haiku poetry.

• A full lineup of exciting concerts is set to be on tap, with a big name artist expected to perform a two-night set in December — keep your eyes open for the announcement.

For information, visit crestedbuttearts.org.

New + Improved: Center for the Arts Crested Butte