Celebrate the season with art at the December Open House on Saturday, December 20th, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Enjoy a cozy day of last-minute holiday shopping, hand-painted ornaments, Christmas cards, and original art — many gifts under $25. Stop by to browse, visit, and share in the warmth of Yule as we close out another creative year at the Blakely Art Collection.

When a painting sells for millions, who really gets paid — the artist or the market? Many record-breaking sales, like Marlene Dumas’s Miss January at $16.9 million, earn the artist nothing. This post explores the truth behind galleries, auctions, and buying direct — and why supporting living artists makes every purchase more meaningful.

Visiting an artist open house is more than just looking at art — it’s stepping into the artist’s world. Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, open conversation, and the chance to see creativity up close. Whether you buy or browse, your visit supports the heart of the art community — connection, inspiration, and appreciation for the creative journey.

Celebrate the season at the Blakely Art Collection’s November 22 Open House in Arvada! Enjoy original art, light refreshments, and meet Hope Blakely in her studio. Holiday-themed ornaments, cards, and gifts priced at $25 or less will be available—perfect for collectors and art lovers alike.

Thank you to everyone who supported our very first Gallery Open House! 🎉 While turnout was smaller than hoped, it was a meaningful start filled with encouragement, lessons, and inspiration. From hanging paintings in different spaces to discovering how lighting changes the mood of a piece, to keeping food simple and easy — we learned so much. These insights will help make the next event even better, and yes, another Open House is coming soon!