Events at CVA
CVA offers artist talks, tours, lectures, workshops, classes and much more to foster a deeper understanding of the work we have on view. Most programs are free to attend and open to all. Subscribe to CVA Happenings, our monthly newsletter, to stay in the know about our latest offerings.
Opening Reception
November 6, 6-8pm
Join CVA for a collective celebration of emerging artists at the opening reception of the Fall 2026 BFA Thesis Exhibition. This culminating showcase features graduating MSU Denver students whose work reflects bold research and deeply personal perspectives. Join us for an evening of conversation, curiosity, and creative exploration. Free and open to everyone.
Winter Artist Market
Opening November 6, 6-8pm
Do your holiday shopping at CVA! Starting Friday, Nov. 6, you can shop a diverse selection of handmade goods and affordable art from local artists who have filled the CVA galleries with one-of-a-kind finds for everyone on your list.
Through December 12, explore unique works of art, handcrafted jewelry, ceramic sculptures, art prints, handprinted cards, books, textiles, and so much more. Whether you’re shopping for the art lover in your life or looking for something special for yourself, there’s plenty to discover from more than 40 local artists, many of whom are MSU Denver students, alumni, faculty, and staff.
First Fridays
Art District on Santa Fe First Friday Art Walk
First Friday of every month, 6-8pm
The First Friday Art Walks are the signature event of Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe. All year round, rain or shine, the District comes alive on the first Friday of each month as thousands of visitors descend upon Santa Fe Drive to view art from hundreds of artists in galleries, studios, co-ops, upstairs, downstairs, in alleys, on the street—everywhere!
On First Fridays, CVA always has something fun happening, whether it’s vendors and cultural partners in the parking lot, fantastic exhibitions in the galleries, or art-making activities in the classroom, there’s something for everyone!
VASD Lecture
Visiting Artist, Scholar, Designer Lectures
The Visiting Artist, Scholar & Designer Program fosters participation and collaboration with both the institution and the MSU Denver community. An integral part of MSU Denver Department of Art’s mission, the Visiting Artist, Designer & Scholar Program is an invaluable resource for students, faculty, and the community. The program is an interdisciplinary and culturally inclusive initiative, bringing nationally and internationally renowned artists, designers, and scholars to engage with the Department of Art. All lectures are free and open to the public and take place at the Center for Visual Art.
