Pueblo art gallery re-opens in restored historical landmark

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) – Steel City Art Works is the latest business to fill the bottom level of the McLaughlin Building since it's landlord's revitalization efforts starting in 2021. It's grand re-opening celebration is this Friday for February's First Friday Art Walk event.

"Pueblo is best represented by the people working and living here," said Steel City Art Works artist and board member Annican Hickman.

The historical landmark at 330 S. Union Avenue has stood since 1891. At various times, the complex has housed saloons, restaurants, a barbershop, a shoe shop—and now, it an art gallery.

"To be able to put my work with [Pueblo as my] subject in this building is real special," said Steel City Art Works artist and board member Linda Cates.

Steel City Art Works is a co-op with over 30 artists managing the space. It's been a staple of the Pueblo art scene for over 17 years, and it's founder Diana LaMorris was instrumental in kicking off Pueblo's "First Friday Art Walk" tradition.

 "This is kind of the best thing that's happened to us so far," LaMorris said.

Like the building itself, its new tenants have done a wide range of jobs in their past. LaMorris was a Chicago police officer for 14 years. She joins doctors, NASA scientists, teachers, Buddhist Monks and more who are all united in their love for art and love for Pueblo.

The gallery said its new home will allow it to offer "a new vision of art, an enhanced experience for customers, and a stimulating space for artists" —all while participating in the revitalization of one of Pueblo’s historical landmarks.

The gallery will host its grand reopening from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 7, complete with a reception, gallery tours and complimentary refreshments at its new location.

The gallery is open free to the public Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.