The Colorado State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition, an annual highlight of the Colorado State Fair, surpassed previous sales records during its 11-day run in 2025. A total of 67 pieces of art were sold, generating $14,737 in sales. This achievement overtook the previous record set in 2023, which saw $9,378 from the sale of 57 art pieces.
"While agriculture is at its heart, we're incredibly proud to celebrate the incredible artistry in our Fine Arts Exhibition,” said Colorado State Fair General Manager Andrea Wiesenmeyer. “The Colorado State Fair is a true reflection of our state's diverse talents that span so many categories, including impressive crafts, captivating photography, delicious pantry items, and so much more that our community has to offer. It's a place where every Coloradan can find something to inspire and enjoy."
The fair traditionally kicks off with a free, public art reception on Thursday evening, before the fair opens Friday morning, providing an early opportunity for art enthusiasts and purchasers to experience the collection. It’s also the first time for entrants to find out how they did.
“I'm thrilled to have a venue where my artwork can be seen, purchased and enjoyed by the public! I'm still over the moon about my win and to then sell the piece? It was icing on the cake!” said Kelly Hannah, Best of Show winner in the Emerging Artist division.
Hannah's piece, titled "The Virgin Queen", won Best of Show in the Emerging Art Division, First Place in the Emerging Artist Division - Mixed Media Category, as well as a Juror's Choice Award. The success of the exhibition benefits both the artists, by providing a venue for their work to be seen and sold, and the public, by offering access to diverse and high-quality local art.
The exhibition showcased 742 entries from 214 emerging and professional artists with a wide range of skills and exhibits.
About the Colorado State Fair: The Colorado State Fair is an annual event held in Pueblo, Colorado, that creates an entertaining, inspiring, and educational inter-generational experience highlighting the preservation, promotion, and exposition of our state's vibrant and diverse agriculture, industry, and culture.