Megan and I got to stop by this great little non-profit co-op while in Georgetown, CO. About an hour west of Denver, Georgetown was established during the Gold Rush as a silver mining town, on I-70. The town's economy which was based on the trade of precious metals is now mostly dependant on tourism. It's a qaint little town near Guanella Pass and right before the entrance to the Central City Parkway. Located in the National Historic Landmark District the Colorado Mountain Art Gallery houses some great local 2D and 3D art. Most or all of the work is by self-taught artists who sell their work cooperatively. Which means a portion of their sales goes to the gallery so that the gallery can sustain itself. Many of the small companies that were started in the rockies historically have been co-ops. My great-great grandfather help start one after he built a house in Telluride. As with many of the emigrants that were from Sweden and western Europe they believed in more socially focused business and political models. And like those models the business model of the CMAG is focused on promoting local artists and helping support the people of the community. If you get the chance I would definately recommend a visit to the gallery to see the work and to chat with the artists.
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