In collaboration with the Creede Arts Council

Step into the pages of this year’s Willow Creek Journal and experience the art, poetry, and stories of Creede—live and in person, with the creators.

The Willow Creek Journal was established in 1993 by the Creede Arts Council to showcase the literary and visual Artists of the Creede community, and is still going strong today, 29 editions later, now in full color!

Part dramatic reading, part open mic, part gallery show, Willow Creek Journal Live brings the published works of this year’s journal to the stage. Local authors, poets, and artists will share their work aloud, and some of Creede’s iconic storytellers will be on hand to read pieces on behalf of those who prefer not to step up to the mic. Visual artists featured in the journal will also present their published pieces, offering insight into their creative process and inspiration.

This year’s event will also feature a group of live backing musicians providing mood-setting music to accompany select works, adding another layer of atmosphere and emotional resonance to the evening.

At the heart of it all is a shared connection to Creede—its landscapes, its people, its history, and the stories we carry. Whether joyful or reflective, deeply personal or universal, each piece in this year’s journal is rooted in the spirit of this special place.

You’ll be able to pick up your very own copy of the journal at the event—and some of the creators might even be willing to sign their work, if you ask nicely!

The evening will be recorded live for archival purposes, and selections will be featured in an upcoming episode of CMAC’s new podcast, The Source.

Whether you’re a contributor, a friend of the arts, or a curious listener, this is your chance to gather in celebration of Creede’s vibrant creative community.

Free to attend—donations will go toward the publication of next year’s WCJ.

More info about the Journal can be found HERE.

BYOB + potluck snacks encouraged. Come hungry for words, art, and good company.