Around Denver | Creatives from Colorado

Denver has long been a hub for creativity, drawing in artists, musicians, writers, and photographers who find inspiration in its sweeping landscapes, urban energy, and rich cultural history. While not all of these creatives were born in the Mile High City, their deep ties to Colorado have shaped their work and, in turn, contributed to the city’s artistic identity. From Grammy-winning musicians to groundbreaking photographers, award-winning authors to Hollywood stars, Denver has nurtured a diverse and dynamic community of talent. This article highlights some of the most influential figures with strong Denver connections—whether through birth, upbringing, or the impact they’ve left on the city’s creative scene.

Musicians

  • The Lumineers – Folk rock band known for songs like Ho Hey and Ophelia.
  • OneRepublic – Pop-rock band led by Ryan Tedder, known for Counting Stars and Apologize.
  • Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats – Soul and rock band famous for S.O.B.
  • India.Arie – Grammy-winning R&B and soul singer-songwriter.
  • Flobots – Alternative hip-hop group known for Handlebars.
  • Big Head Todd and the Monsters – Rock band popular in the ‘90s.

Actors

  • Tim Allen – Actor and comedian, famous for Home Improvement and Toy Story.
  • Don Cheadle – Acclaimed actor known for Hotel Rwanda, Iron Man films, and Ocean’s Eleven.
  • Kristen Schaal – Comedian and actress, known for Bob’s Burgers, The Last Man on Earth, and Flight of the Conchords.
  • AnnaSophia Robb – Actress known for Bridge to Terabithia, The Carrie Diaries, and Soul Surfer.
  • David Fincher (born in Denver, raised elsewhere) – Director of Fight Club, Se7en, The Social Network.

Writers

  • John Fante – Novelist known for Ask the Dust, a classic in American literature.
  • Hunter S. Thompson (grew up in Colorado) – Creator of Gonzo journalism, author of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.
  • Kent Haruf – Author of Plainsong and other novels set in rural Colorado.
  • Adrian Miller – Food historian and writer, winner of the James Beard Award.

Artists

  • Daniel Sprick – Contemporary realist painter known for his intricate portraits and still lifes.
  • Lawrence Argent – (lived later life in Colorado) Sculptor best known for I See What You Mean (the giant blue bear at the Colorado Convention Center).
  • Herbert Bayer – Bauhaus artist and designer who worked in Denver later in life.

Photographers

  • John Fielder (1950–2023) – A celebrated nature photographer known for his breathtaking landscapes of Colorado. His work has been instrumental in conservation efforts, and his books have showcased the beauty of the state.
  • Kevin Moloney – A former New York Times photojournalist and educator who has covered global events while being based in Colorado.
  • Ron Pollard – A contemporary fine art photographer known for his architectural and commercial photography, as well as his politically charged conceptual work.
  • Gabriel Christus – A Denver-based sports and documentary photographer, often working with the Denver Broncos.
  • Mark Sink – A well-known fine art photographer and curator, famous for his work with large-format and wet plate photography. He was instrumental in co-founding the Month of Photography Denver (MoP).
  • James Balog – Though not born in Denver, he has strong ties to Colorado. He is an environmental photographer known for Chasing Ice, a documentary about climate change and melting glaciers.
  • Evan Semón – A photojournalist who has covered major news events, politics, and daily life in Denver for various publications.