Against a backdrop of fourteeners in Chaffee County’s Sawatch Range, unassuming Salida gets its 15 minutes of fame – twice in one month.
Two annual events cast the town on the banks of the rushing Arkansas River into the spotlight. One, on the river it reveres. The other, in the studios and galleries of one of the best small art towns in America.
The 57th Blue Paddle FibArk Whitewater Festival on June 16-19 will be attended by the world’s water sports stars and an expected 25,000 spectators.
The mighty Arkansas has been called the world’s most vicious river, according to expert rafters and kayakers.
FibArk (First in Boating the Arkansas), started in 1949 when two friends attempted to race in canoes 56 miles from Salida to Cañon City. A Swiss duo in foldable boats beat them.
A half-century later, FibArk includes professional raft and kayak races, but also wild and crazy water rodeos, “anything that floats” races, and 26-mile endurance trials.
Most of the weekend’s events can be seen from the river banks in downtown Salida. The best spot is on the F Street bridge.
Saturday morning’s Hooligan race includes crafts that float – sort of – to the finish line at the F Street Bridge, if they make it.
Professional races will be videotaped and shown later each day at the Salida Steamplant theater.
Salida’s Riverside Park hosts a carnival with inflatable rides for kids, food and craft vendors, a bungee jump, climbing wall, bounce room for kids and a pedestal joust for agile adults. Each evening, the park fills with live music and karaoke.
During the 13th annual Salida Artwalk, June 24-26, all of the downtown’s historic district become venues for visual and performing art. In addition to artist-in-residence studios, 44 galleries, restaurants and shops open their doors to exhibits, artists’ chats, and demonstrations.
At Cool Mountain Art, creator Karine Swenson will offer 100 original oils for $100. In the lobby of the Steamplant Performing Arts theater, 150 original 4 by 4-inch works will be offered at a silent auction.
Find innovative work and studio jewelry at cultureclash, as well as a sterling and steel forging demonstration by Harry Hansen. Enjoy the designer jewelry and wearable art collections at Gallery 150. The stone, glass, wood and art at The Green Cat will enchant you, as will the expressionism at Brodeur Gallery. Many venues offer celebratory libations and appetizers during their receptions Saturday evening.
Drop in at a feng shui demonstration, a framing how-to, and a glass-blowing session. Learn how weavers manipulate their looms. Watch an artist create a raku work of art. See a piece of wood become a dramatic wall hanging. Let a potter throw a pot with effortless ease. Follow the painstaking strokes of calligraphy.
Musicians entertain – everything from Flamenco guitar to heavenly harp – that can be heard from the galleries.
Visit Mel Strawn’s new studio, and Judith Hilmer’s hideaway. See what the children of Salida have painted for this annual event. Take a break and enjoy a complimentary horse and carriage ride.
Follow the Artwalk flags to each venue, and pick up a brochure and map directing you to all galleries, studios, shops and participating restaurants.
Lillian Ross is a freelance writer who lives in Howard.
