art and architecture
Celebrating art + uniqueness of Niwot, one year at a time.
Why Not Niwot? Exhibition
Niwot has a way of staying with people. The streets that draw you in, the shops you keep coming back to, the trails that feel like yours. Why Not Niwot? began as a way to celebrate exactly that: the places, corners, and quiet moments that make this town what it is, seen through the eyes of the artists who know it.
Now in its 15th year, the annual juried exhibition invites artists to interpret Niwot in their own voice: in paint, watercolor, acrylic, gouache, and mixed media. Each piece must reflect what Niwot means to the artist, and artists are encouraged to share a short statement about that connection alongside their work.
A three-panel jury, drawn from the local art community, the working artist community, and people with deep roots in Niwot, selects winners each year. The Grand Prize includes prints, cards, and wine featuring the winning piece, with proceeds benefitting the Niwot Cultural Arts Association.
2026 Exhibition
This year, Why Not Niwot? comes home to Niwot Hall. Work will be on view from August 11th through September 11th during scheduled hall events, with the closing exhibition and awards night on a special [Second] Friday Art Walk, September 11th. People's Choice voting takes place that evening, with the winner announced before the night is out.
Key Dates
Entry Deadline: July 6
Drop-off: July 13
On View: August 11 – September 11
Closing Reception & Awards Night: Friday, September 11
Entry Details
Entry fee: $30 for up to three pieces 2D work only: painting, watercolor, acrylic, gouache, and mixed media All work must feature the uniqueness of Niwot Artists are encouraged to include a short statement about their piece's connection to Niwot
The Grand Prize winner's work will be featured on prints, cards, and wine, with proceeds benefitting the Niwot Cultural Arts Association.
Ready to enter? Ger your application here.