At the heart of Downtown Littleton’s creative culture is the Art & Design Center at Arapahoe Community College (ACC)—a welcoming, inclusive hub where imagination meets community connection. Whether you’re a first-time artist, a lifelong maker, or simply curious about exploring a new craft, the Art & Design Center offers accessible programming for all ages, abilities, and experience levels.
We recently sat down with Katie Caron, Department Chair and Director of the Art & Design Center, to get the inside scoop on their public offerings—and there’s a lot happening that you won’t want to miss.
Open Doors, Open Minds
Located just steps from the light rail with a ramp-accessible entrance on Prince Street, the Art & Design Center is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm, with special events and workshops held year-round.
Thanks to a recent grant from the Littleton Arts & Culture Commission, the center is offering free art workshops throughout the spring and summer — an incredible opportunity for locals to try something new without any financial commitment. From beginning jewelry making to pottery, there’s something for everyone. One class Katie is especially excited about is Printmaking Basics, a hands-on workshop that teaches participants the foundational techniques of relief, monoprint, and etching.
Not Just for Students
Don’t let the college setting fool you — ACC’s Art & Design Center is a community-first space, offering much more than just student programming. Highlights include:
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The HIVE Makerspace: A full woodshop and digital fabrication lab that now offers monthly memberships to community members. It’s a creative playground for anyone looking to bring ideas to life using tools like laser cutters, 3D printers, and more.
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Affordable Community Classes: Explore courses in everything from photography and floral design to writing, publishing, and even voice-over work. These non-credit offerings are perfect for adults looking to expand their creative horizons.
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Summer Youth Camps: A variety of youth programs ensure the next generation of artists and makers can explore new passions in a supportive environment.
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Jantzen Gallery Exhibitions & Art for Everyone Lecture Series: Regular events at the center invite the public to engage with art through thought-provoking lectures and curated shows.
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Downtown Littleton Events: ACC’s Art & Design Center is a proud participant in community favorites like Walk the Chalk and Final Fridays, bringing student and faculty creativity into the streets of Downtown Littleton.
What’s Next: Blue Sky Center for the Arts
One of the most exciting developments is still to come. This fall, ACC will officially launch the Blue Sky Center for the Arts, a bold new initiative focused on expanding public programming, exhibitions, and creative partnerships. A community-wide Open House event is already in the works — stay tuned for details!
In the meantime, you can find ACC students and faculty participating in pop-up shows, mural competitions (like the one currently at Aspen Grove), and collaborations that bring fresh, local creativity to Downtown Littleton.
Get Involved
Want to take a class, join the Makerspace, or attend an upcoming event? Visit ACC’s Art & Design page to browse current offerings and register.
From professional tools and inspiring exhibitions to free workshops and creative classes for all ages, the Art & Design Center at ACC is proving that art really is for everyone — and it’s happening right here in Downtown Littleton.