Armando Silva’s vibrant murals adorn walls across Colorado. He hopes a new festival will inspire more outdoor art

Greeley artist Armando Silva paints some of the most prominent artwork along Colorado’s Front Range. His vibrant, expressive murals depict sugar beet workers who helped establish Fort Collins ... or a steer to honor the Greeley Stampede. And he’s working to create a space for more artists to create more murals. He’s part of the team launching WeldWalls, a brand-new mural festival in Greeley that launches next week. That got us curious about how he hopes to grow the public arts scene in Colorado – and how he got started painting murals in the first place. Armando joined host Erin O’Toole to share more about his unique career, and what he hopes this new outdoor art festival will bring to Northern Colorado's arts community. WeldWalls mural festival takes place September 17 – 21 in Greeley. Full schedule here. * * * * * Sign up for the In The NoCo newsletter: Visit KUNC.org Questions? Feedback? Story ideas? Email us: [email protected] Like what you're hearing? Help more people discover In The NoCo by rating the show on your favorite podcast app. Thanks! Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole Producer: Ariel Lavery Executive Producer: Brad Turner Theme music by Robbie Reverb Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.