Member Highlight: Art Students League of Denver (ASLD)

Tell us about you: provide a short bio or organization statement.

The Art Students League of Denver (ASLD) empowers people to experience the joy of art in their own way. We believe that art is for everyone, whether you’re looking to add some creativity to your everyday life or want to make a living as an artist.

There is no set curriculum, so you’re free to explore what interests you! Gain hands-on experience in our courses, workshops and summer camps, no matter how old you are or whether you’ve made art before. In all studio classes, instructors individualize learning in a style that fits their personal philosophy and integrates demonstrations, study of master artists and group critiques.

Community engagement with Colorado’s diverse communities is central to the Art Students League’s mission and realized through partnerships with performing arts groups, public schools, museums, libraries and other art centers.

Share a story of how your organization engages with the business sector.

Sunday Sundae is one of ASLD’s most popular events of the year. This ice cream social—where the sundaes are served in ceramic bowls handmade at ASLD, that guests get to keep when they leave—is an afternoon of community and fun that highlights the mission of ASLD. And the event wouldn’t be possible without the support of Sweet Action, who provides all the ice cream and sundae toppings for the event. This sweet partnership was born in one of ASLD’s studios; Sweet Action co-owner Gerry Kim met an ASLD staff member in a sewing class, who later recommended she join the board of directors. Fast forward a few years, and Gerry is now ASLD’s board president, and using her business savvy to help guide the organization.

How has this engagement with business benefitted you and your organization?

Partnering with Sweet Action is mutually beneficial to both entities: Sweet Action’s success within the community allows them to support ASLD through in-kind and cash support, and seeing Sweet Action’s investment in a local arts nonprofit builds customer loyalty among ASLD community members. ASLD and Sweet Action are able to share their networks and use their powers combined to foster a local economy that uplifts the arts.

How is your organization supporting the creative economy?

ASLD employs almost 200 artists as teaching faculty in our visual arts classes, and also provides various opportunities for artists to show and sell their work. Because we believe that creating artwork is real work, we have a firm commitment to always pay artists for their time and creations, and supporting infrastructure in our own organization and beyond that ensures being an artist is a viable career option for all kinds of Coloradans.

Why are you involved with CBCA?

Being involved with CBCA is a no-brainer as a Denver arts nonprofit. CBCA is a fabulous connector to both fellow nonprofits and businesses alike – it’s an incredible network to be part of and has led to great partnerships over the years. The monthly ArtsConnect member events are a great way to offer free perks to our employees, and the Leadership Arts program has brought us high-quality board members and invaluable staff training. (Note: Applications for CBCA’s 2025-2026 Leadership Arts program are open through August 8!)

If you would like more information about becoming a CBCA member, visit the CBCA Membership page or contact our Membership & Development Manager, Sarah Braverman at sbraverman@cbca.org.