April’s First Friday Artwalk will celebrate artistic diversity and storytelling, both of which form the framework of the Yampa Valley’s creative arts community.

A glimpse into history

The Jace Romick Gallery will unveil newly discovered copper photogravure plates and zinc printing blocks from the early 20th-century photographer Roland Reed. The pieces, which Romick believes likely date from 1915 to 1930, were recently acquired by the gallery and are being shown to the public for the first time.

“I feel incredibly honored to have a collection of this caliber here in Steamboat and to be able to give Roland Reed the recognition he deserves,” said Romick. “… My hope is to be able to build a show that we can travel with and showcase his work worldwide.”

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For more information on the gallery and the show, visit .

A new creative home

This month marks the second FFAW for The Alley Gallery and Art Studios. The space at 729 Lincoln Ave. opened in February and was founded by local artists Jill Bergman and Ann Feldman.

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Located in the alley above Del Mezcal’s back entrance, it combines a gallery space with two working art studios where the public can watch the artists’ methods and talk with them about their inspirations and work.

Bergman’s linocut “The Inner Gorge,” which was inspired by John Wesley Powell’s exploration of the Colorado River, will be one of the focal points of this month’s FFAW exhibition. Feldman will also present oil paintings rooted in the scenery and communities that surround Steamboat Springs.

“Bar Boots”

At the Schoonover Gallery, April’s featured exhibit is a fusion of western style and home bar flair called “Where the Wild West Meets Fine Spirits.” The gallery will debut handcrafted bottle holders made from vintage cowboy boots.

“‘Bar Boots’ will complement your favorite wine or liquor bottle and add a distinctive touch of Western charm to any bar,” Schoonover said.

In addition, the gallery will continue its representation of more than 35 artists and sculptors as they continue to showcase mountain contemporary and modern Western art.

An evolving vision

Pine Moon Fine Art’s all-gallery show, “The World Around Us,” invites viewers into a shared reflection on environment, change and creative reactions. The exhibition will feature new work from the collective’s resident artists and explore how each interprets their surroundings with evolving perspectives.

The collection presents the gallery’s commitment to bringing the community dynamic and deeply personal art.

Highlights of the show include “Golden Ripples,” a kiln-formed glass work by Jennifer Baker, which combines light, movement and meditation.

“Good Grief”

An emotionally powerful exhibit entitled “Good Grief” will open at the Depot Art Center, at 1001 13th St.

The works of Krystal Mackey will be presented in partnership with Northwest Colorado Health’s Hospice program. Mackey, who has a background in design and architecture, created the series as an emotional coping outlet. Her pastel on sanded paper and digital drawing pieces offer the viewer an honest and vulnerable exploration of grief.

Selected works were displayed during “Tuesdays with Morrie” at Perry-Mansfield in March.

“Grief may be scary, sad and hard to look at,” said Mackey. “But it’s worth it.”

Influenced by artists Chagall, Kandinsky, Warhol and Lichtenstein, Mackey’s style combines vibrant color with feeling- and grief-based introspection.

The exhibit invites viewers to reflect on whether grief has affected them and if they would benefit from talking about their experiences with it.

“We hope that viewers can connect with their own experiences of grief and loss while viewing the exhibit,” said Steamboat Creates‘ Thea Wigglesworth. “There are many interactive activities available throughout the exhibit to allow visitors to process their emotions as they move through Bliss Hall, and we hope this allows for some inner peace and quiet resolution at the end of the experience.”

Northwest Colorado Health’s Hospice program offers grief counseling and support services for individuals and families experiencing loss. The show aims to remove stigmas surrounding conversations about death, healing and using art as a bridge to understand both.

“It’s very exciting to show this whole body of work all together because it tells a story,” said Mackey. “… I’m so glad Northwest Colorado Health has taken this exhibit under their wing so that we can emphasize community outreach and support.”

The opening reception will include live music, interactive activities and a chance to speak with Mackey.

Steamboat Creates will also host two pastel workshops on April 8 and 15, giving attendees the chance to explore the medium in a guided setting. Additionally, there will be a grief-themed open-mic night on April 10 for storytelling, poetry and community support.