The First Gallery to Carry My Jewelry
Finding a gallery that truly fits your work is a big milestone as an artist. Getting your work into galleries can take time, persistence, and hearing “no” more than once along the way. For me, Mountain Sun Arts in Fairplay was the first gallery to say yes to carrying my jewelry. Nine years later, it still means a lot to have my work there.
A Gallery Full of Colorado Creativity
Tucked along Front Street in Fairplay, Mountain Sun Arts showcases handcrafted work from many talented artists. The gallery carries pottery, paintings, stained glass, woodworking, and other handmade pieces inspired by the Colorado mountains.
Over the years, the gallery has become a favorite stop for people exploring the South Park area. The atmosphere feels welcoming and relaxed, making visitors want to slow down and take in the artwork around them.
Why Mountain Sun Arts Felt Like the Right Fit
When I first walked into Mountain Sun Arts, I liked the feel of the gallery right away. There were many different types of art represented, but everything was tidy, organized, and displayed well. It felt like the kind of place where my jewelry belonged.
By that point, I had already been selling my work at shows for a few years. I knew people responded to my designs, and I felt confident that my jewelry could sell in galleries too. When I approached Mountain Sun Arts, the owner, Brion, was excited about my work and agreed to carry it.
That first yes still meant a lot. It was the beginning of seeing my jewelry move beyond art shows and into galleries.
One comment from Brion has always stuck with me. At one point, he told me that he had a hard time selling jewelry in his gallery, but he could sell my jewelry. I don’t know if that’s still the case today, but at the time, it was a pretty incredible compliment.
My work has changed and grown over the years, but the inspiration behind it has stayed rooted in nature. I create acid-etched copper jewelry inspired by weathered textures, wild landscapes, forests, and organic details found outdoors. Having those pieces displayed in a mountain gallery like Mountain Sun Arts has always felt like a natural fit.
The Character of Fairplay
Fairplay itself adds to the experience. With its historic buildings, mountain views, and small-town creative atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where handmade artwork feels right at home.
Many people also recognize Fairplay as one of the inspirations behind the setting of the TV show South Park. It adds another layer of personality and fun to the town. Visitors exploring the area often spend time wandering local shops, galleries, and historic sites along Front Street.
Looking Back After Nearly Nine Years
Looking back now, it’s hard not to feel grateful for how much that first opportunity meant to me. Mountain Sun Arts will always hold a special place in my journey as an artist because it was the first gallery to take a chance on my jewelry.
Nearly nine years later, I’m still proud to have my work represented there alongside so many talented Colorado artists and makers.
