Denver Museum of Art

Being in the art field, I wouldn't normally think of Denver as a leading art center. But thanks to their new museum, they've secured themselves on the art world map.

First of all, Denver got smart and had their new building designed by celebritect, Daniel Libeskind. Libeskind also won the proposal for the Freedom Tower at the World Trade Center site, which will be 1776 feet high. The new building is a mesh of angles, points and planes. Some find it obnoxious, but I find it really innovative and fresh, with a slight reference to the jutting rocks of the Rocky Mountains.

The physical building aside, I had low expectations of the Denver Art Museum's collection. But clearly, I judged a book by its cover. Largely backed by patrons of the arts The Logan Family, the collection is not only eclectic, but hold some intensely important modern artists' pieces. The Logans' collection is my dream collection. They love modern edgy artists such as Yoshitamo Nara, Takashi Murakami and Ron Mueck. Part of their private collection is on view in the new building, all of which will be given to the museum eventually. They've also promised the museum their Aspen Estate.

The museum's collection also features Damien Hirst, Andy Warhol, some lesser known works by master painters, as well as ethnic art of native Americans and a large Western American Art wing. A well rounded museum, I feel it rivals many of the museums I've seen in major cities in the US and Europe.

Colorado residents receive a break on admission fees, which was annoying to me but I can see what a great benefit it is to the local taxpayers.

The presence of the new museum has already begun to enliven the Denver art market and spur the opening of new galleries, as well as gain support for other Denver museums.

For more information:
www.denverartmuseum.org