Meet Garrett Day | Artist & Owner of Orbit ArtSpace

We had the good fortune of connecting with Garrett Day and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Garrett, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
For as long as I can remember I have been “pursuing” an artistic life. Beginning with making music with family when I was very young. I suppose that caused me to constantly reach for that thing we all love about art. My own drive to make music, and art drew me more and more to others that did the same, and were actually much more adept. Poets, musicians, photographers, painters, sculptors, writers, filmmakers, on and on. It is the best stuff of life to me. I myself make a little music always, and I also make visual art in the realm of photography. I love making the photos! Work life had me in the wine biz for many years. First in Napa Valley, then it followed me to Colorado. I very much wanted to transition away from that. The impetus for Orbit ArtSpace was an amazing opportunity that presented itself, and this “space”. There was magic room downstairs from the Lithic Bookstore in Fruita just begging to be an Art Gallery.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a gallery owner I am blessed with a community, a space, and an interest in procuring beautiful things. Orbit ArtSpace makes itself for the most part. On one hand Artists come by nearly everyday to show me their work, while I also have a pretty good idea of what is going on and who I may like to have be a part of our shows. The gallery is dynamic, monthly or bi-monthly shows, so it is easy to stay engaged and jazzed about work. One thing I didn’t think about before I opened was how it would feel to interact with people solely while they are in this elevated “art gallery” mood. It is quite the perk. Orbit ArtSpace is good medicine for visitors and myself alike.
One important lesson I have learned is to take care with the overall esthetic of the place, but balance that with getting out of the way so you speak. My taste is certainly not everyone’s taste. I want the place to be interesting to everyone. Everyone is welcome!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We are blessed in Fruita with many iconic establishments beginning with Lithic Bookstore upstairs. The books, the readings and events are all very special. The Hot Tomato for Pizza, Stromboli and beer. Vintage Common boutique is a soulful Fruita institution. Copper Club is our long standing brewery and living room for locals. Palisade wineries are delicious fun. Colorado National Monument is a must see. FARM is nearby for more art, studios and the new Canvas35 gallery.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

Yes! My daily life at Orbit ArtSpace is propelled by all the artists that are kind enough to be part of this place. The friendship and inspiration of Danny Rosen and Kyle Harvey at Lithic Bookstore, they are always making beautiful things up there.

My life partner Marilyn Wilcox is an amazing Artist who just adds so much to the place. I couldn’t do it without her. Family, friends, makers everywhere.

Website: https://www.orbitartspace.com

Instagram: @westoftheimagination & @orbitartspace

Facebook: @orbitartspace

Other: My personal art photography page on IG is @westoftheimagination. Gallery is @orbitartspace

Image Credits
The photo of myself is taken by Marilyn Wilcox. All others are by Garrett Day(myself)