Chloe Duplessis

Having been immersed in the vibrant Denver arts scene for over a decade, I've had the privilege of attending countless events, workshops, presentations, and conferences. These experiences have run the gamut of emotions, from laughter to tears, and have exposed me to a wealth of knowledge from the many brilliant minds that grace our creatively-blessed city. 

Among the multitude of enriching experiences, one workshop stands out in my memory: a workshop led by the captivating Chloé Duplessis that focused on pausing, resetting, and shifting mindsets. The workshop's impact sparked a collective curiosity among participants, leaving us all eager to delve deeper into the teachings and insights of Chloé Duplessis. 

It was through this workshop, part of a creative entrepreneurship series, that I first met Chloé. Not only did she lead a killer goal-setting workshop, but I learned she was also a killer artist, historian, convener, and advocate. And did I mention that she’s hilarious to boot? 

Chloé, a legally blind artist and passionate advocate for accessibility inclusivity, has made significant strides in promoting disability awareness and breaking down barriers for individuals with disabilities. Her artistic talents have been instrumental in driving her advocacy efforts forward. Among her notable accomplishments, Chloé designed Denver's first accessible "I VOTED" sticker, ensuring that individuals with visual impairments could also participate fully in the voting process. 

Among her accomplishments, she has collaborated with fellow artist Valerie Rose to co-create a powerful mural in the RiNo Art District. This mural serves as a visual representation of the disability experience, raising awareness and fostering a more inclusive community. Through her work with Artful Accessibility, Chloé has played a crucial role in educating arts organizations about the importance of accessibility and providing them with practical guidance on how to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all patrons, regardless of their abilities. 

Most recently, Chloé's appointment as the Colorado Black History Research Program Manager marks a continuation of her advocacy work centering equity, accessibility, and healing. In this role, she will lead a team of researchers to investigate how Colorado's past practices, systems, and policies have negatively affected Black residents. 

Chloé's impressive list of accomplishments is merely one facet of her remarkable character. She radiates warmth and care, is humble and gracious, and always speaks with purpose and eloquence. She is sunshine, she is power, she is grace. Her unwavering dedication and boundless energy have made her an unstoppable force within the Denver arts community, where her influence and impact continue to grow.

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*Each organization nominated their honoree with an essay. Those essays are posted here, as submitted, to maintain the organization's unique voice and authenticity.

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