It has provided a space for artists to showcase their work, new bands to release their music, and served as a gathering point for many of Fort Collins’ different and unique communities. Unfortunately, however, this is all changing on November 1st, when the downstairs venue and cafe closes its doors for good.
Mike Adams At The Downtown Artery
“It’s been my goal from the moment that I started working here to provide a space for the under-served communities of Northern Colorado — Where all of us weird kids could come together in one space and celebrate the beautiful things that we create together.” Says Mike Adams who is currently the Programming Director at the Downtown Artery.
“Though I am sad to see this place go I am so proud of the music scene we have here, and am grateful that I have had a chance to contribute to it.”
Rosie Wendel At The Downtown Artery
Although the news of the Venue closing may be saddening, there is a silver lining. The Upstairs Gallery and Studio spaces will remain open and will continue to foster artists and community gatherings for the foreseeable future. “We think that the upstairs is a valuable addition to the Fort Collins landscape in regard to the arts, and we want it to stay that way.” Says Rosie Wendel the Art Director of the downtown artery.
“Nothing drastic will be changing upstairs, we will still have First Friday gallery openings and will be hosting as many pop-up events that we possibly can.”
While the November 1st date may seem like its right around the corner, there are still plenty of opportunities to catch some amazing shows in the venue. “Stay tuned a mind-blowing last week at the Downtown Artery” added Mike at the end of our interview. Some of the shows that have already been announced are generating buzz around town: