To many who have lived there for a long time, West Colfax conjures images of old neon signs, dive motels, live bars, diners, and cowboys. The longest commercial street in the United States boasts an eclectic culture and history. Although the West Colfax corridor’s landscape has shifted over the past decade, many changes are intentional—aimed at preserving historic integrity while providing new opportunities for the creative community.
As Denver neighborhoods have felt the pressure of rising costs and market forces, many creatives, galleries, and artists have found a home within the 40 West Arts District. Here, artists are not only creating work—they are shaping community, fostering education, and extending their influence well beyond the district’s boundaries.
Creativity Rooted in Craft: Wilson Burnham
One such creative is classical guitar maker Wilson Burnham, whose studio is located at 40 West Studios. Surrounded by pine and cedar trees while growing up in Northern California, Burnham developed an early appreciation for natural resources and craftsmanship.
After studying classical guitar and modern dance, Burnham explored careers in horseshoeing, carpentry, and park ranger work in national parks before returning to his first love: classical guitar.
Having spent over five years crafting guitars full-time, Burnham’s instruments are gaining national attention. His guitars are built entirely by hand using traditional methods, all-natural materials, and meticulous processes that require patience, precision, and deep respect for the craft.
“It’s just something I’ve always wanted to do because I’ve been passionate about classical guitar since I was twelve,” Burnham says. “It’s always been there.”
Beyond building instruments, Burnham is deeply committed to mentorship and access. His sponsorship includes support for the Twisted Spruce Music Foundation in Colorado Springs, an organization that promotes collaboration between classical guitarists and composers. For Burnham, the goal is not only excellence, but opportunity.
Sculpting Stories: Maive Eichelberger
Artist Maive Eichelberger, whose three-dimensional collage work blends photography, found objects, and sculptural form, brings another layer of depth to the district. Inspired by the outdoors—particularly the American West—Eichelberger’s work explores shape, texture, and storytelling through layered assemblage.
Her sculptures often incorporate objects shaped by the big skies, trucks, animals, and ranches of her childhood, creating pieces that feel both personal and universal. Recently, Eichelberger has been creating large-format saddle-stitched collage prints and flower-based works for galleries across Colorado and beyond.
Eichelberger has been a member of 40 West Studios for over two years and credits the district’s collaborative environment for helping her grow creatively. “The camaraderie from other creatives is inspiring and welcoming,” she says. “Each of us has a different craft, and we’re constantly learning from one another.”
Art in Action: Sean Doherty
A mainstay at 40 West Studios, Sean Doherty is a Colorado-based artist, sculptor, and teacher whose work blends humor, social commentary, and hands-on engagement. Doherty’s studio—often affectionately referred to as “Third World” due to its eclectic mix of materials—is a place of curiosity and invention.
Known for interactive sculptures, upcycled materials, and large-scale robots, Doherty’s work frequently engages children and underserved audiences. His installations invite play, exploration, and joy, often blurring the line between art and experience.
During the pandemic, Doherty worked with community partners to create art installations reflecting collective emotion and resilience, including collaborative fence displays along West Colfax. His belief in accessible art and public engagement continues to define his practice.
“Art has made all the difference in my life,” Doherty reflects. “And I believe it can do the same for others.”
Photography, Place, and Perspective: Gary Reed
Photographer Gary Reed, another long-standing artist in the district, draws inspiration from the transformation of West Colfax and the people who inhabit it. Reed’s work captures the evolving identity of the corridor through layered compositions and rich visual storytelling.
Reed has served on numerous boards, including as Vice President of Denver’s Art District on Santa Fe, and brings deep institutional knowledge to the creative ecosystem. His photographs highlight overlooked beauty and elevate everyday moments into lasting documentation.
Education, Mentorship, and the Bigger Picture
In addition to individual artists, 40 West Arts benefits from strong educational partnerships, particularly with Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD). Programs like Visiting Artist Scholar Discussions (VASD) create opportunities for students and the public to engage directly with leading artists, scholars, and designers.
Curated programming, artist talks, workshops, and exhibitions ensure that creativity remains accessible and inclusive. Even during periods of isolation, the district found ways to foster connection, support, and artistic expression.
A Community Built on Creativity
Despite challenges faced by artists nationwide, the 40 West Arts District continues to thrive as a hub for innovation, generosity, and collaboration. Creatives here are not only producing meaningful work—they are mentoring, teaching, volunteering, and reinvesting in their community.
From handcrafted guitars and sculptural storytelling to public art and education, the artists of 40 West demonstrate that creativity and altruism are deeply intertwined. Their work reminds us that art is not only something to be viewed—it is something to be shared, lived, and used as a force for connection and change.
