Girdwood’s ‘In The Loop’ First Friday unveils a Mountain Community of Artistic Expression

By Jon Scudder, with photography by David Nyman

TNews Contributors

On the first Friday of each month, the streets of Olympic Mountain Loop transform into a vibrant community of artistic expression, as local artists, musicians, and businesses unite to celebrate creativity in the heart of Turnagain Arm.

Since the ‘In The Loop’ event debuted, the event has quickly become a cornerstone of Girdwood’s cultural scene, drawing customers, locals and visitors, to explore the diverse array of businesses in this monthly celebration. 

Participating Friday, 5 to 7 pm, were businesses such as Alpenglow Coffee House; Girdwood Center for Visual Art; Jack Sprat Restaurant; La Bodega; Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard; and Powder Hound Ski and Bike Shop.

Alpenglow Coffee House was serving ‘In The Loop’ customers on the unusually warm and calm winter evening. (Photo by David Nyman)

Attendees wandered through Olympic Mountain Loop on the exceptional calm and warm winter evening. At the top of the loop, art enthusiasts were treated to the GCVA showcasing an eclectic mix of paintings, and artwork from local artists.  

Among the featured GCVA exhibitions, were Ed and Georgia Bennett, owners of Bennett Images LLC in Eagle River, which provides photography, fine art painting and graphic design services.  Each piece of artwork telling a story ot the artist connection to the vast and untamed beauty of Alaska.

Local artists, both established and emerging, seized the opportunity to engage with the community, sharing the inspiration behind their work and forging connections with art enthusiasts. 

‘In The Loop’ was about more than art to accommodate the influx of winter sports enthusiasts and curious onlookers.  If your interest was in winter sports, there was the Powder Hound Ski and Bike Shop which displayed an array of the latest gear and clothing. And if you were just there to enjoy the event, there were several food and drink businesses.

Customers enjoying the ‘In The Loop’ evening at Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard on Jan. 5. (Photo by David Nyman)

Local businesses actively participated in the monthly celebration, with many offering discounts, promotions, and even hosting special events.

The sense of community was palpable as residents engaged in conversations with artists, shared their thoughts on the displayed artworks, and explored the unique cultural offerings that Turnagain Arm has to offer.

In addition to fostering a thriving arts scene, ‘In The Loop’ serves as a catalyst for economic growth, boosting foot traffic for local businesses and contributing to the overall vitality of the mountain community of Girdwood.