By Patty LaTaille
Those who have lived in Salida any length of time, say from 2002 onward, may have noticed an artistic renaissance slowly transforming the rural mountain town of 5,300 from its origins as a railroad/mining town. Salida has one of the largest historic districts in Colorado, with beautifully renovated buildings – many dating from the Victorian era. Interspersed in and amongst them are nearly 125 artists in residence – showing their work in the local galleries, and on building exteriors.