Aspen Announces 2026 Public Art Season

As the sun rises over the Rocky Mountains, casting a warm glow over the Aspen Pedestrian Mall, the sound of gentle chatter and clinking coffee cups fills the air, and the smell of freshly baked pastries wafts from the local cafes, you can feel the excitement building for the 2026 public art season. The city's commitment to supporting local artists and fostering community engagement is palpable, and this year's lineup promises to be just as vibrant, with a mix of interactive installations, performances, and events that will transform the city into a living, breathing gallery.

Aspen Public Art has announced its 2026 season, which will run from May to October, and it's clear that the organization is dedicated to showcasing the work of local artists, while also inviting the community to participate in the creative process. The new Art in Motion program, a collaboration with WE-cycle, will feature the work of five local artists - Molly Altman, Daniel Bayer, Emily Chaplin, Nika Meyers, and Leah Potts - on over 30 kiosks and 100 pedal bikes across the city. This innovative program reimagines public space as a dynamic, ever-changing gallery, and it's an exciting development for the city's art scene.

But that's not all - the city is also gearing up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Aspen Pedestrian Mall, a beloved landmark that has become an integral part of the city's identity. Mall Fest 50 will bring a series of public art experiences to the car-free mall, including a stunning installation by textile artist Rachel B. Hayes. Her work, "Shifting Light," will consist of 10 large, hand-sewn panels suspended in the tree canopies above Hyman and Cooper avenue malls, and it promises to be a breathtaking sight. As you walk beneath the installation, you'll be able to witness how it shifts and changes with the daylight, casting dappled shadows on the ground below.

If you look closely, you'll notice that Hayes' work is inspired by a range of sources, from log-cabin quilts to abstract painting and stained glass. Her use of color and light is reminiscent of the natural beauty that surrounds us in Aspen, and it reflects the city's ability to inspire and nurture creative talent. And, as Program Lead of Aspen Public Art Lara Whitley notes, this season is all about "leaning into Aspen's rich history, costume culture, and innovative spirit" - a sentiment that's evident in every aspect of the upcoming art season.

As the season progresses, the city will also host a public Art Parade, which will take place on the morning of June 27. The parade will feature a people-powered procession of "costumes, contraptions, and performances" under Hayes' vibrant sails, and it promises to be a fun and interactive event that will bring the community together. The theme of the parade, "What do you LOVE about this place?" is a nod to the city's unique character and the things that make it special, and it's an invitation to locals and visitors alike to share their thoughts and feelings about the city.

As you make your way through the parade route, you'll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the city, from the smell of food vendors to the sound of music and laughter. And, with free community workshops and a costume contest with prizes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The parade will culminate in a block party in Sister Cities Plaza, where you can mingle with friends and neighbors, and enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere.

The art season in Aspen is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience, with a mix of interactive installations, performances, and events that will showcase the city's creative spirit. As the city comes alive with color and sound, you can feel the energy and excitement building, and it's an experience that you won't want to miss. So, mark your calendars for the upcoming events, and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of public art in Aspen.

And, as the sun sets over the Rocky Mountains, casting a warm orange glow over the city, you'll be able to look back on the day's events, and remember the sense of community and creativity that defines this special place. The sound of laughter and music will still be echoing in your mind, and the smell of food and drink will linger in the air, leaving you with a lasting impression of the city's unique charm.