Denver attractions - Wild Color Macrame

I See What You Mean

To most, this sculpture created by the late Lawrence Argent is known as “The Big Blue Bear.” Few are aware that the formal name of the sculpture is “I See What You Mean.”

Location

Located outside of the Colorado Convention Center on 14th Street between California and Stout, the blue bear has hundreds of visitors a day. On any given afternoon, you will witness children climbing the bear’s feet, young adults posing for selfies and citizens and tourists alike snapping a shot of the striking 40-foot attraction.

Why Blue?

Artist Lawrence Argent intended for the piece to be eye-catching, but he didn’t plan for it to be vividly blue! In fact, the blue color was a complete accident. Originally, the bear was going to reflect the colors of Colorado in shades of sandstone, but a printing error showed Argent just how lovely this piece could be in a bold hue.

Popularity

Argent was shocked by the attention his creation has received. The bear is now a Mile High City icon and appears all over the internet with comments like, “Where is this bear located!? I NEED to see it in person!” In an interview, Argent said, “To me, it’s kind of like the bear needs the building, and the building needs the bear.”

So why is the bear so popular? Is it the bold color? Is it the huge-ness of it? (Yes, huge-ness is totally a word.) Or is it the whimsical, playful nature of the bear? It seems to be peering into the convention windows as if to say, “What’s going on today?”

My vote is the latter.

A City Landmark

Whatever the case may be, the bear is certainly a Denver landmark and is worth a visit on your next trip to the city.

Lawrence Argent completed this piece in 2005. He passed away at the age of 60 at Rose Medical Center following a liposuction procedure on October 4, 2017. I’d like to thank him for his beautiful contribution to the city. My heart goes out to his loved ones.

Thanks for reading,

Emma

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That’s so Denver.

Here’s another great find from Atlas Obscura. Seriously, if you’re looking for something fun and unique in your area, look no further than Atlas Obscura.

A few weeks ago my husband and I visited the International Church of Cannabis. The “tour” was really more of just an opportunity to sit in the chapel and admire the murals and take a quick look inside of their meeting room.

I couldn’t believe that this place really existed. Apparently, the government can’t either. They are actively trying to shut down the church. So if this place tickles your fancy, come quick, the International Church of Cannabis may not be open for much longer.

Now buckle your seat belt, I’m about to drop some knowledge about the International Church of Cannabis and what it means to be an Elevationist.

What is the International Church of Cannabis?

The International Church of Cannabis consists of a group of people known as Elevationists. Elevationists believe that it is their religious right to reach the greatest versions of themselves without political scrutiny or prosecution. Members join together in the church to smoke marijuana in a safe environment. No one under the age of 21 is permitted in the building.

What’s with the funky murals?

Artists Okuda San Miguel and Kenny Scharf designed the interior and exterior of the building. The church is colorful with vibrant mural across the ceiling. The murals have no meaning, but members claim that they discover their own meaning while smoking marijuana. The meeting room (pictured below) is adorned with quirky decorations, furniture, board games and a small gift shop.

Where is the International Church of Cannabis?

The church is located at 400 S Logan St, Denver, CO 80209 and is open for tours Thursday through Sunday 1:00-3:00 p.m. There is a $5.00 suggested donation. Marijuana consumption is not allowed in the church when it is open to the public.

Can I smoke inside of the church?

You must become a member to smoke inside of the church as smoking is not allowed during tour hours.

The History of Elevationism

Elevationism began in Denver, Colorado by a group of people who were tired of the restrictive nature of most religions. Some Elevationists believe in God but more generally they refer to a Universal Creative Force and allow members to decide what they believe. Elevationism did not begin as a replacement to faith. Instead, it was created to support the consumption of a plant that has positively influenced the minds of the individuals.

Members

Members of the church are known as Elevationists. During their service, they smoke weed and strive to reveal the best version of themselves and discover a creative voice. Elevationists claim that they do not attempt to convert visitors to Elevationism. According to their website, “[Elevationism] claims no divine law, no questionable doctrine, and no authoritarian structure.” People who believe that cannabis can and should be used in the one’s personal journey and search for meaning are encouraged to join.

People are always very curious about marijuana when they find out I live in Colorado. Yes, marijuana is legal in Colorado. All you need is a valid ID and you can purchase marijuana at one of the many shops across the state. There is literally a shop on almost every corner (similar to liquor stores, if not more prevalent). Colorado residents receive a slight discount. You must be 21 years or older to purchase marijuana.

What do you think about the legalization of marijuana? What about the International Church of Cannabis? How would you feel if one popped up in your neighborhood?