Daily Inspiration: Meet Elias King

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elias King.

Hi Elias , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Four years ago, a Cherry Creek art collector approached Platte Furniture owners Dick and Kyle Kelly with an offer to sell her remarkable, worldly collection. In her 80s and in declining health, she hoped her pieces would find a home among the store’s unique offerings.

Though impressed, Kyle initially felt out of his depth. After consulting an art expert who urged him not to hesitate—“This art doesn’t come along that often”—he purchased the collection for approximately $100,000, the store’s largest acquisition since opening in 1978.

Unsure how to display the work alongside regular furniture, the Kellys decided it deserved more. What started as an unexpected opportunity turned into a bold pivot: they cleared out the basement and Kristin Petty, our designer, spent months transforming it into a sophisticated art gallery—launching a new chapter for Platte.

In the last 3 years, the space has evolved into a fully curated fine art gallery, showcasing not only their refined furniture finds but also a growing roster of local Colorado Springs artists. With new exhibitions rotating every two months, artists are given space to shine across a wide range of mediums, price points, and perspectives.

Curated by Elias King and designed by Kristin Petty, the gallery has become a true destination—especially during the monthly First Friday Cocktail Hour, now a favorite among locals for its vibrant atmosphere, fresh artwork, and community feel.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
We have come a long way from the start of this project, with milestone successes and new challenges arising. Initially the space had been only open to RSVP tour, designers, and high-dollar clientele – now we have regular business hours, with consistent foot traffic even outside of events. However only having one employee dedicated to the space has proven more and more challenging. We now have so much foot traffic and growing numbers that the curation and back end clerical tasks are consistently being impacted by lack of staff support. Thanks to our personalized representing style and great reputation within the artist community, I no longer have to hunt for artists. We also have a fully booked schedule of over a year, into fall of 2026.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Hi, I’m Elias King—Gallery Coordinator for Platte Collections, abstract acrylic artist based in beautiful Colorado Springs, and an emerging entrepreneur in the arts. I began painting in January 2025 under the mentorship of the irreplaceable Al B Johnson, and what started as a personal exploration has quickly become a growing passion and pursuit.

Since stepping into the world of abstract art, I’ve been honored and amazed by the opportunities already opening up—sharing my work publicly, connecting with other creatives, and stepping into spaces where art can truly come alive. I’m excited to continue building meaningful collaborations and am open to participating in art festivals, gallery events, and commission work.

Whether curating exhibitions or putting brush to canvas, my mission is to create spaces where art isn’t just seen—it’s felt, experienced, and remembered. I believe deeply in the power of art to connect people and transform environments, and I’m here to help make those connections happen.

As the only employee I manage the booking of artists, selecting of inventory, POS processing, artist communications, planning and host of events, promotions, social media account management, and client relations for this business.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Tremendous credit to Kristin Petty, our Interior Designer for taking on the challenge and having the vision to create Platte Collections Art Gallery, transforming it from a storage basement to the amazing venue it is now. The dedication of Al B Johnson is unmatched as our longest Resident Artist, having permanent residency at Platte Collections. Huge thank you to our local artists bringing vibrant life and community to our space, which we could not have achieved otherwise.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://gallery.plattefurniture.com
• Instagram: @plattecollections
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/plattecollections

Image Credits
All image credit to Elias Levi King, and my very first headshot (not the one at the bar) is to Kadie Kirkpatrick with the Pikes Peak Bulletin.