Press Release
‘Charm Valley’ by Chiaozza goes public at Francis Whitaker Park on July 8
Aspen, CO — As part of their commitment to creating cultural vibrancy through free and accessible art experiences, Aspen Public Art and the Aspen Ideas Festival are collaborating to bring the “Charm Valley” by Chiaozza installation to Francis Whitaker Park.
Following its debut at the 21st annual Aspen Ideas Festival, the seven-sculpture work will move from the festival campus into the heart of downtown. It will be displayed from July 8 through September at Francis Whitaker Park, at Hopkins Avenue and Monarch Street.
"2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the Aspen Institute and we are so thrilled to be collaborating with the city of Aspen to bring art both to the Aspen Ideas Festival and to the larger public through this whimsical piece that celebrates Aspen's rich history of integrating mind, body and spirit," said Ava Hartmann, senior program manager of public programs at the Aspen Institute.
The name “Charm Valley” plays with the mountain location of its current site at the headwaters of the Roaring Fork Valley, and suggests a place, a landing, and a safe haven for the collective imagination. Each time the work travels, the artists modify its name and colors to reflect the installation’s environment and audience.
“We’re delighted to collaborate on Charm Valley with Chiaozza and the Aspen Ideas Festival to create a fun and whimsical setting to gather and connect in Aspen,” said Lara Whitley, program lead of the city of Aspen’s public art program. “What better way to build a third space for locals and visitors than by inviting play?”
Chiaozza (rhymes with “wowza”) is the collaborative practice of Adam Frezza and Terri Chiao. Based in Brooklyn, N.Y., they have worked together since 2011, exploring play and craft through sculpture, painting, installation, and public art. For Chiaozza, play is a lens for shifting perception and sparking collaboration.
“We imagine these curious shapes of Charm Valley as whimsical charms or magical tokens that have tumbled out of the satchel of a mythical giant,” Frezza said. “Inspiring physical and mental play, these charms engage an open space, such as a park or waterfront, inviting visitors to activate their bodies and minds in new ways.
“We love when visitors ask, ‘What is this?’” Chiao said. “This place of questioning opens up a space of wonder and potential in the heart and mind.”
Charm Valley is open to the public during park hours, daily from dawn to dusk. Aspen Public Art is developing free community engagement opportunities for its 2025 artworks, including activity kits and an open house. To learn more about the city of Aspen’s public art program and to receive updates on programming, visit redbrickaspen.com and follow on Instagram at @redbrickaspen.
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lara Whitley, program lead, Aspen Public Art, city of Aspen
Phone: 970-258-7787
Email: lara.whitley@aspen.gov
Mariela Hale, digital communications coordinator
Phone: 970-309-9959
Email: mariela.hale@aspen.gov