mission
The Museum of Friends (MoF) seeks to honor the artists who have freely given art to the museum's founders, thereby establishing its collection. The museum's mission is to foster open inquiry toward cultural education and its ideals through exhibitions, public and educational programs, and an extensive public reference library, in addition to its permanent collection. It pledges to serve the state of Colorado as a cultural resource, and to create opportunities for the underserved, underrepresented and under-resourced community of Walsenburg and Huerfano County.
welcome to the museum of friends
Discover a vibrant hub of creativity, culture, and community in the heart of rural Walsenburg, Colorado. The Museum of Friends (MoF) is more than a contemporary art museum: it is recognized as the first counterculture museum in the United States (source: Art in America). MoF serves as a space for connection, education, and social impact, fostering community well-being and supporting thriving creative economies.
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From engaging STEAM programs for K–12 students to community and adult workshops, MoF provides opportunities to develop new skills, ignite creativity, and build meaningful collaborations. Our artist residencies, public art projects, and historic preservation efforts, such as the restoration of the Roof & Dick Building and civic engagement initiatives, reflect our deep commitment to intercultural understanding, accessibility, and art as a catalyst for social change.
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MoF proudly preserves and showcases the rich heritage of Southern Colorado and the counterculture art movements, offering a one-of-a-kind archive that bridges our region’s past with its evolving present. Through initiatives like the Made in Walsenburg store, we celebrate the unique talents of local artists and craftspeople, providing a platform for their work while supporting creative industries and community development.
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Explore our galleries, participate in hands-on workshops, and join us for exciting exhibits, community programs, and events. At MoF, there’s something for everyone to discover, create, and enjoy.
mof news
current exhibits:
2025 Annual Earth Exhibit
Apr 26, 2025, 5:00 PM – Jun 21, 2025, 7:00 PM
Experience a Showcase of Earth Inspired Art from Local, Regional, and National Artists
Visit us to see EARTH, the Museum of Friends’ annual spring exhibition celebrating nature, reflection, and renewal. Our Community Healing Tree is an interactive art installation inviting you to contribute a word, image, or intention for personal and collective healing. Free and open to the public.
---- Featured Artists ----
Elizabeth Hansen, Ezra Li Eismont, Ella Evans, Leatrice Linden, Richard Mehringer, Joe Linfesty, Ray Espinoza, Hannah Standeven, Neal Robinson, Brendt Berger, Heidi Eversley, Sue Martinez, Maria Cocchiarelli, Reba Savageau, Marissa Martinez, Heather R. Hernandez, Lisa Durham & Hella Songbeetle
2nd floor changing exhibit extended
through 6.21.25
Richard Mock’s exhibit Spiritual Life will be on view at MoF on the 2nd floor through June 21, 2025. Richard Mock (1944 to July 28, 2006) was a printmaker, painter, sculptor, muralist and editorial cartoonist. Mock was best known for his linocut illustrations that appeared on the Op-Ed page of the New York Times and from 1980 through 1996. The works on view at MoF have been donated by his sister Bonnie Mock and husband Anthony Turr and represent the later part of Richard’s life. Richard Mock was born in Long Beach, California in 1944. Mock earned his bachelor’s degree, studying lithography and block printing at the University of Michigan. Settling in New York City in 1968, Mock had exhibitions at 112 Greene Street, the Whitney Museum, Exit Art and before his death at the Sideshow Gallery in RedHook, Brooklyn. Mock’s paintings, prints, drawings and small sculptures are on view at the Museum of Friends as he was a dear friend to both founders. Mock was named the official portrait painter of the 1980 Olympic Winter Games in Lake Placid, New York.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Marissa Martinez,
CSU-Pueblo Student
As a young student the classes utilized social and emotional learning and also in their youth programs which taught me that there is no right or wrong way to create art and that there is no right or wrong way to feel. MoF allowed me to express myself; here was the first place I felt I truly belonged. In this community, MoF is the first of its kind to offer artistic STEAM programs. Such programs are important in our community so the children can grow into educated, resilient, and empathic citizens.
Alexandra, K-12 Student
The Museum is a place where art, community, and friendship hold a place. It offers lots of learning activities for children and adults about art and creativity. This place influences life and culture of the community.
Nicole Shannon,
Walsenburg Resident
The Museum of Friends continues to elevate Walsenburg through its dedication to promoting art,culture, and history, and I am incredibly impressed by the work being done. The museum plays a vital role in the cultural life of our town, and I look forward to seeing how it will continue to enrich our community in the future.
