Denver: A City of Creativity and Community

Photo by Jennifer Hogan

I have travelled to Denver in the past and enjoyed what the city had to offer. When I started researching for the assignment, I was surprised to find the extensive street art culture in Denver. In particular, the RiNo Art District really impressed me. Started by two local artists, the organization has grown over the last 15 years to be a leader in community engagement and street art culture. Structured with a unique operating model, the non-profit levies a RiNo Improvement tax on residential and commercial properties in the district. These funds are used directly in the community to promote and invest in artists and street art, local improvements, infrastructure and advocacy. RiNo has done an exceptional job of branding the organization, the orange rhino is immediately recognizable and can been seen on city infrastructure and in local business windows. The RiNo Art District has enhanced the community, uplifted street art and accessed a dynamic economic model for the community. While no model is perfect, the organization has created opportunity for artists, community members and the city.