Vail Art Studio

Welcome to Vail Art Studio - a space for artists to flourish surrounded by Vail’s inspiring natural environment.

Overlooking Gore Creek in Ford Park and adjacent to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the Vail Art Studio has a vaulted ceiling,12-foot-high walls and windows that provide natural light and uninterrupted wall space. This 750 sq. ft. building has a 450 sq. ft open working studio.

The studio was contemplated for more than two decades and finally came to life in 2025. Designed by Harry Teague Architects, the concept creates a building that is both a working artist studio and a sculpture itself integrated into the landscape of the park. The amenities and utilities provide the necessary support, environment and light for various art disciplines. Learn more about Vail Art Studio.

Inaugural Vail Art Studio Challenge

Ten Local Artists Compete for a Grand Prize of $5,000 and Opportunity to Create in the Vail Art Studio

Ten Eagle County-based artists competed in August at the inaugural Vail Art Studio Challenge at Avanti Vail mountainside patio. The artists had three hours to create a work from start to finish. Community members celebrate the grand opening of the Vail Art Studio in Ford Park. The public was invited to the challenge and to watch the artists create and dine on the patio of Avanti Vail.

Christopher "Gus" Gruner of Vail was the winner of challenge, which included a $5,000 grand prize sponsored by Town of Vail's Art in Public Places (AIPP) patrons and renowned art collectors Vicki and Kent Logan. Gruner also won the opportunity to be the first artist to create in the new Vail Art Studio in Ford Park.

“The AIPP Board was incredibly pleased with the number of applications, quality, and breadth of work submitted by our valley’s creatives to be considered for the Vail Art Studio Challenge. The opening of the Vail Art Studio will serve as the cornerstone for Vail’s public art program with many opportunities to engage the community. It is an exciting time for the visual arts in Vail,” Molly Eppard, AIPP coordinator.

Guest judges Squire Broel, Doe Browning, Pedro Campos, and Marc LeVarn selected the Grand Prize winner.

Artist-in-Residence Spotlight

Artist in Residence Gus Gruner inside the Vail Art Studio. The Vail Art Studio welcomes Vail local Chris "Gus" Gruner as the first artist-in-residence to create in the new Vail Art Studio.

Vail artist Gus Gruner, standing, paints on gold design on a board.Gus was selected for this honor as the winner of the Vail Art Studio Challenge by a panel of guest judges at a live art competition. The event took place in August at Avanti Food and Beverage and showcased 10 Eagle County artists competing for a $5,000 grand prize and the opportunity to be the first working artist in the Vail Art Studio. This event was generously sponsored by Vicki and Kent Logan longtime patrons of Art in Public Places.

Gus combines urban influences with mountain inspired beauty in his bold and vibrant paintings. His work imbues passion, community and staying true to his art.

"I have been thinking about color theory and new ways to paint," he said. "I want to honor this space with new ideas and new paintings. I hope to surprise myself and others with I create. It will be nice to have a refreshing outlook and paint thoughtfully."

Gus' residency runs through Dec. 28. Meet Gus and learn about his work and the Art Studio during Open Studio Hours: noon–3 p.m., Fridays, Dec. 12, 19 and 26.