Beginning in October, the monthly Artwalk returns with a fresh new website and look. The revamped event is the result of a new partnership between the Artwalk’s longtime producer, Flagstaff Arts Council, and Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance.

“Flagstaff Arts Council is all about collaborations and building strong partnerships,” states Flagstaff Arts Council Executive Director Jonathan Stone. “The DBA and FAC began meeting to discuss collaborating on Artwalk back in February. Then the pandemic hit. This partnership is even more important now as we seek to reenergize the downtown as the creative heart of our city.”

Terry Madeksza, Executive Director for the Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance says, “We are thrilled to join the Flagstaff Arts Council as ArtWalk FLG and First Fridays resume.  We have worked hard to implement creative ways to showcase arts, culture, entertainment – all while prioritizing public health. Tables and chairs have been added in public spaces for expanded outdoor dining, and businesses are open with safety protocols in place.  We invite residents and visitors alike to not only experience First Fridays, but to explore arts and culture in Downtown Flagstaff all month long.”

ArtWalk FLG is one of Northern Arizona’s premier arts events and has been a staple of our creative community for more than a decade. Pre-Covid, each first Friday of the month, twenty to forty art galleries and businesses in historic Downtown Flagstaff opened their doors from 6-9pm with special art exhibitions, performances, live music, and more.

At the beginning of the year, Nature Exposed Photography agreed to be the presenting sponsor of the refreshed Artwalk. Their investment helped create the new website, logo, and marketing plan. And, when the Covid-19 pandemic hit causing a pause on Artwalk activities, Nature Exposed stood by and graciously continued their support.

“Nature Exposed Photography is excited to sponsor the Artwalk this year,” states owner Tony Freeman.“Given the ongoing challenges facing us all, supporting the opportunity for folks in our community to escape the chaos and enjoy the work of local artists is high on the list of our priorities. Please come out and support the local arts scene – helping others in these difficult times is a great way to help ourselves and to beautify the homes where we are spending more time in these days. The artwalk team and local galleries are working hard to provide a safe environment for you to enjoy the arts. Your cooperation in making it a user-friendly experience for everyone is definitely appreciated.”

Artwalk will return in October with a soft relaunch of activities and will ramp up as it is safe to do so. Please visit artwalkflg.org for more information.