Colorado's Abstract Adventures highlights the health benefits of creating art
Denver Arts Week is a celebration of the Denver metro area's vibrant arts and cultural industry. It generates about $2 billion in the Colorado economy a year. This week, one of the themes of Denver Arts Week is "Art & Well-Being." Recent research has proven scientifically that there are measurable physical benefits from creating and engaging in the arts. VISIT Denver is promoting that through a series of events and activities that highlight well-being.
A hike & paint excursion with Abstract Adventures is among that programming.
"We are a guided hike and paint tour company," said Sarah Leistico, founder of Abstract Adventures. "That experience of painting in nature was just so transformative for me that I really wanted to make it into something that the everyday person can enjoy and experience."
Leistico started the company 2 years ago. She takes budding artists on a hike and then gives them all the tools they need to paint the scenery. The company offers two adventure levels: there's the Nature Lover, which is a mile-and-half round trip hike that is relaxing and mindful. Then there is the Trailblazer option, which is 3 mile round trip.
"We have step-by-step techniques that are fun and easy to follow, but I really encourage folks to take risks, play with different colors, and make their painting uniquely theirs," Leistico said.
This kind of adventure is where creativity meets well-being making art an immersive experience.
"My goal really is that folks really tap into that freedom and joy that they get from painting outdoors," she explained.
LINK: Full Schedule of Events for Denver Arts Week
Abstract Adventures is holding its final hike & paint excursion of the season on Sunday, November 9, 2025. It will be back with more adventures in May 2026. Leistico is offering a buy one, get one 1/2 off discount for Denver Arts Week. There are literally hundreds of ways to explore the arts during Denver Arts Week, which runs through November 16, 2025.
