Destination of the Week: Denver Art Museum
Photos by James Florio Photography; Bruce Fernandez; Courtesy of Denver Art Museum.
This week, Daily Travel Source is spotlighting the fabulous Denver Art Museum. We caught up with Heather Nielsen, Deputy Director and Chief Learning and Engagement Officer, to learn about the museum’s mission, diverse art collection, and fun experiences that travelers can enjoy while visiting.
For travelers visiting Denver, can you tell us where the Denver Art Museum is located and what is your favorite part of that neighborhood?
The Denver Art Museum is located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, near the capital, civic center, and the Denver Public Library. It’s a neighborhood known as a hub for many of Denver’s fabulous cultural institutions. While at the art museum, don’t miss our newest addition The Kirkland, a wonderful presentation of decorative arts, Colorado artists, and the work of Vance Kirkland. There are many gems in this neighborhood, including many fabulous places to eat. Don’t miss Leven Deli!
Photo by James Florio Photography, courtesy of and Denver Art Museum.
Denver has such an amazing culture! How does the museum balance profiling the work of artists based locally and internationally?
Our job is to showcase the best of the best, whether they be local or global. Denver’s world class artists are featured in our galleries, and we plan programs and engagements all year long.
It’s what makes DAM exceptional, our local and global reach.
Are there any new exhibits or art pieces that visitors can get excited to see this summer or fall?
Kent Monkman: History is Painted by the Victors, is a thought provoking and beautiful exhibition by one of Canada’s premier Indigenous artists. National treasures of Korea are featured in a must-see exhibition Lunar Phases: Korean Moon Jars.
We just opened an immersive installation, The Tangled Self, created by local artist Sadie Young, whose crocheted monsters welcome you to step inside their enormous mouths. It is an awe – inspiring summer at the Denver Art Museum.
Does the museum have any family friendly events planned this summer?
On July 27th, we are celebrating The Kirkland joining the Denver Art Museum at a free, family-friendly neighborhood block party with artmaking, food and musical performances. A perfect Sunday excursion with the kids.
The museum looks like a perfect date night spot! Do you host any ongoing events that are fun for those occasions?
Our restaurant, The Ponti opens for happy hour all summer long. The museum is a perfect place to take in a work of art, have a conversation, and find connection. Untitled: Artist Takeover is an after-hours quarterly event with local artists and creatives who program the evening with performances, and unexpected creative encounters. You won’t want to miss the summer edition, planned for July 25th, featuring Wheelchair Sports Camp and a host of local creatives. A perfect date night!
