Experience the Vibrant Summer Art: Local Artists Transform Fort Collins’ Public Pianos!

FORT COLLINS, Colo. — The vibrant Pianos About Town program is back this summer, inviting local artists to turn ordinary pianos into bright pieces of art. Starting May 14, eight talented teams will transform these instruments in Fort Collins’ Old Town Square.

The featured artists include Ben Hatcher, Chloe Cochran, Chyna Mapel, Janet Gilliand, Jess White, Theo Altmaier, Victoria Endsley, RaDean Mynatt, and William Richard Greene. Their creative ideas can be explored online at the City of Fort Collins website.

This year, the public can watch the artists paint at the Art in Action tent. It’s a chance to see creativity come alive in real time. Managed by the City’s Arts program, this initiative enriches our community with art and music.

One standout artist, Jess White, is creating a design inspired by local rivers. Her piece, “An Ode to a Poudre River Grand Slam,” depicts a fly fisher casting into waters teeming with trout. This design symbolizes the rare achievement of catching four trout species in one day, sparked by fun office chats about fishing.

Ben Hatcher, another artist in this project, is capturing his connection with his new community through his playful piano dedicated to his corgi, Sprinkles. With a background in museums and libraries, Hatcher hopes this initiative will help him connect with Fort Collins locals.

“These pianos are not just art,” Hatcher said. “They invite everyone to create and connect.”

The program is also seeking donations of gently used upright pianos. If you have a full-size piano in good working order, the City will pick it up for free in the Fort Collins area. Interested donors can reach out to Visual Arts Coordinator Liz Good at (970) 416-2646.

Pianos About Town started in 2010 through a collaboration between the Bohemian Foundation, the City of Fort Collins, and local arts organizations. Over the years, the initiative has placed more than 20 painted pianos around the city each summer, bringing unexpected joy and creativity to public spaces.

As we enjoy fresh sounds and colors this summer, let’s remember how art can foster community spirit. These pianos not only beautify our surroundings but also inspire connections and conversations among residents.

Source: City of Fort Collins Art in Public Places Program

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