As part of their revitalization of Boulder’s Pearl Street East end initiative, Unico Properties LLC recently announced the donation of a 5,743-square-foot ground floor retail space at 1421 Pearl Street that will serve as a pop-up artist space through the end of May.
madelife, the launchpad for artists and entrepreneurs founded on mentorship and collaboration and continuous iteration, among other partners, will host the pop-up “Art for Hope” exhibit and fundraiser through May 29.
“Unico is proud to have the opportunity to partner with madelife and local artists to enliven this space right in the heart of downtown Boulder,” said Billy Woodward, Unico’s Colorado market leader and director. “Boulder has a vibrant arts scene that we are thrilled to support, and even more excited that this partnership will also benefit those in the community in need of support.”
100 percent of the funds raised during the “Art for Hope” exhibition and silent auction will go towards supporting local nonprofit organizations that provide support and resources to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. These organizations offer counseling, treatment, and other resources to help people overcome addiction. The local non profits being fundraised for include Boulder Bridge House, The Grief Support Network, Natural Highs Boulder and the Jack Raise Memorial Fund.
“We are really grateful to Unico Properties for donating the space and are excited for the opportunity to showcase art from our community that goes to support such extraordinary local organizations,” said Megan Reznicek, creative director at madelife. “Our featured artist William Stoehr’s work aims to raise awareness and end the stigma around substance use disorder and this is a conversation that needs to be happening in Boulder.”
The “Art for Hope” exhibit and silent auction will feature an exhibit from artist William Stoehr that will focus on the effects substance abuse leaves on individuals, families, and society. Over the course of the month, other local artists and organizations, including madelife artists, BVSD students, and more, will be given the chance to have their artwork auctioned off.
“The support and generosity of Unico Properties played a vital role in making this event possible,” said Artist William Stoehr. “Pearl Street, known for its high traffic, offers a prominent platform to not only raise awareness and increase understanding about substance use disorder but also highlight the diverse individuals affected by this condition, serving as a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles.”
Late last year, Unico began its efforts to revitalize the East End district through public art by collaborating with local artist Austin Zucchini-Fowler and Street Wise Boulder’s 2022 ARTivism Mural Festival. Green Harmony, the mural created by Austin to celebrate Boulder’s art scene and commitment to sustainability, came to life in the pedestrian alley on the 1400 block of Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall. Through these efforts, the well-trafficked pedestrian thru-way is now activated to create a safer, more welcoming experience for those who travel through the alleyway.
This initiative aligns with the Downtown Boulder Partnership’s vision for the East End to be a district for creative spirits, foodies, adventure seekers, and trend-setters. While the area draws tourists, it’s heavily trafficked each day by Boulder locals. Downtown Boulder sees eight to 10 visits every 90 days by 53 percent of area residents.
