THE THREE COMMITMENTS
Together, we’re building a city where the arts thrive and our culture flourishes.
DENVER CREATES is built on a foundation of community voices and scaffolded by a decade of introspection and progress in the cultural sector. Anchored in principles of access, equity, belonging, partnership and collaboration, our collective vision of creating thriving Denver communities will be bolstered by three collective commitments.
OUR GUIDING VISION
To grow and strengthen Denver’s arts and culture
ecosystem for everyone to enjoy.
We cannot operate on islands anymore. We have to be collaborative; we have to form strong partnerships.
donnie l.betts, Filmmaker, Theatre Director
ACHIEVING THE VISION
These commitments outline actionable strategies, informed by data and community feedback from the arts and cultural sector, to create a more equitable and dynamic cultural landscape. With a collective focus, inclusive communities can flourish – and art will challenge systems and spark change – supporting the creation of spaces that celebrate diversity, prioritize well-being and cultivate a sense of belonging.
COMMITMENT #1
BROADEN ACCESS TO
ARTS AND CULTURE
The strategies under Broaden Access to Arts and Culture provide actionable ways of advancing equity, boosting participation and supporting arts in Denver’s neighborhoods by addressing barriers to funding, engagement and access. Actions are driven by feedback from the arts and culture sector and are focused on making arts and culture more inclusive and accessible.
COMMITMENT #2
CULTIVATE THE
CULTURAL COMMUNITY
The strategies under Cultivate the Cultural Community aim to strengthen Denver’s cultural community by amplifying artists’ successes, integrating them into community decision-making and enhancing their involvement in shaping policies to develop the next generation of arts leaders. By addressing key barriers and opportunities, like fostering cross-sector collaborations, the creative community can build a more vibrant, inclusive and sustainable arts ecosystem in Denver.
COMMITMENT #3
SUPPORT THE ECONOMIC VITALITY OF DENVER'S CULTURAL SECTOR
The strategies under Support the Economic Vitality of Denver’s Cultural Sector advance Denver’s economic vitality by addressing critical needs in affordable arts spaces, increased funding and retention of local talent. By enhancing collaboration, expanding resources and fostering an environment conducive to creative growth, this commitment seeks to strengthen Denver's role as a thriving hub for arts and culture.
DENVER ARTS & VENUES' COMMITMENT
Denver Arts & Venues (DAV) is the City and County of Denver agency that will steward DENVER CREATES and serve as a convener of the cultural sector. Through DENVER CREATES, DAV aims to inspire collaboration within the arts community to collectively address sector challenges and bring the vision of this roadmap to life. DAV will support initiatives, facilitate partnerships and track sector progress, ensuring strategies remain aligned with Denver’s evolving cultural needs – ultimately helping Denver’s cultural community thrive – for good.
ABOUT DENVER ARTS & VENUES
DAV is the agency responsible for operating some of the region’s most renowned facilities, including Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver Performing Arts Complex, Colorado Convention Center, Denver Coliseum, the Theatre at Loretto Heights and McNichols Civic Center Building. As the city’s local arts agency, DAV also oversees the Denver Public Art Program; manages grant programs that support artists, cultural organizations and creative initiatives; and coordinates entertainment and cultural events like the Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts and Culture.
Funds generated by DAV are invested back into the community through grants for artists and organizations, free and low-cost cultural events, art in public spaces, venue operation and maintenance, and arts education. In other words, every good time at one of our venues enriches Denver through arts and culture and helps Denver’s cultural community thrive — for good!