DENVER, CO — Artists on Santa Gallery at 747 Santa Fe Drive kicks-off Summer with an exhibition featuring mixed-media work by Iris Irene and Sarah Polzin. As neighbors in the on-site studios, they share an artistic kinship and initially bonded over their discontent with the way the world overlooks female creatives. “Wild Strokes | Rebel Bloom”, on view June 20 – July 13, 2025, brings together their distinct yet deeply connected styles into a visual dialogue that celebrates bold color, texture, and the fierce resolution of the feminine spirit. The show is a testament to the inspiration and power that blooms in community. The public is invited to an Opening Reception during the Art District’s Third Friday Collectors Night, June 20, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., where they can meet the artists and tour their studios, to First Friday Art Walk: July 4, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m., and to visit during regular gallery hours. 

Irene works with a loose, expressive hand, letting abstract expression overlay the powerful figures beneath. Polzin intricately combines layers of multimedia paintings to build dimensional works of biophilic abstract realism. Despite no coordination of their work beforehand, the pieces for this show naturally align into a cohesive exhibition that highlights their differing processes while embracing vibrant palettes and themes of femininity and growth.
Polzin, a Denver local, hails from a family of artists; her artistic voyage has been profoundly shaped by her environment and upbringing. She received a BFA and Art Education degree from Metropolitan State University. And has since taught in a variety of adaptive art programs throughout Denver and Los Angeles. In addition to her fine art, Polzin and her sister work with their father in the world of sign painting, specializing in murals, gold leaf, commercial art, and installations. She can be found on at Instagram @sarah.r0se.arts and at www.stargazercreations.com.

Irene’s expressive, abstract paintings center on feminine figures and the emotional landscapes they embody. Her work combines bold color, layered texture, and intuitive process. Each piece becomes a ritual—an invitation to feel, reflect, and connect with the mysteries of being human. Also based in Denver, she has background in art therapy and holistic death care. Follow her on Instagram @irisirinestudios

Artists on Santa Fe Gallery at 747 Santa Fe Drive showcases the work of member and resident artists. The selection of original artwork on view includes ceramics, sculpture, paintings, mixed-media, printmaking and jewelry. Regular hours are Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 11 am to 3 pm, Fridays and Saturdays, 11 am to 5 pm and Sundays, Noon to 4 pm, The building is also home to the working studios of 25 + artists. Visitors are invited to explore and discover this enduring creative hub.

Artists on Santa Fe Gallery

747 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, Colorado

Hours: Mon, Wed and Thur, 11-3:00, Fri and Sat, 11-5:00, Sun 12-4:00

Closed Tuesdays

In addition to “Wild Strokes / Rebel Bloom”, other fine art will be displayed in the gallery by resident artists, including paintings, ceramics, jewelry, mixed media and sculpture. Enjoy visiting two levels of working artist open studios.

Artists on Santa Fe Gallery at 747 Santa Fe Drive showcases the work of member artists ranging from sculptors and painters to printmakers and jewelers. Regular hours are Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 11 am to 3 pm, Fridays and Saturdays, 11 am to 5 pm and Sundays, Noon to 4 pm, The building is also home to the working studios of 25 + artists. Visitors are invited to explore and discover this exciting and enduring creative hub. For more information visit www.artistsonsantafe.com.