When you visit the Denver Art Museum, the experience begins before you even set foot inside. The two buildings that house this diverse collection of art are true masterpieces themselves. From its humble beginnings as Denver Artists’ Club in 1893, this institution has established itself both at the heart of the Denver cultural scene and as a city landmark.
The North Building was the first to open in 1971. Designed by the famous Italian modernist architect Gio Ponti, its seven stories are covered by more than 1 million grey tiles that glisten in the sunlight.
2006 saw the addition of the Frederic C. Hamilton building, a collaboration between the architect Daniel Liebeskind, famous for Berlin’s Jewish Museum, and Davis Partnership Architects based in Denver. The dramatic design seeks to mirror the angled landscape of the Rocky Mountains. Both buildings are united by a footbridge that allows visitors unbroken access across the whole collection.
The museum is renowned for its permanent collection of American Indian art, housed in the North Building. You’ll discover ancient ceramics, textiles and beaded jewellery, alongside contemporary sculpture and glasswork.
It also holds a significant collection of pre-20th century European art, including such iconic pieces as Claude Monet’s “Waterlilies”, as well as many Renaissance and Old Master paintings. The Modern & Contemporary galleries are full of the best of works from the 1900s onwards, covering all major artistic movements from abstract expressionism to conceptual art.
You’ll also find a whole programme of activities for families. Visit the Just For Fun Centre, where children can make costumes and dress up, or the Paint Studio, where everyone can try their hand at different artistic processes. Check the website to discover the full programme of events.
Round off your visit with a trip to the museum shop to pick up a souvenir by a local artist, and refuel at one of the three on-site cafés and restaurants.
The Denver Art Museum is open daily. It is easy to access by public transport, or if you are driving, there is parking nearby.
