Denver, Colorado, boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, and one of its hidden gems is the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art. Located at 1201 Bannock Street, this museum offers a unique and captivating experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With an impressive collection of over 30,000 objects, the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art provides a comprehensive look at the world of decorative art, design, and painting.
History and Background
The Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art was founded in 2003 by Hugh Grant, the museum’s founding director and curator. The museum is named after Vance Kirkland, a renowned Colorado painter and educator whose studio is now part of the museum complex. Grant’s vision was to create a space that not only showcases Kirkland’s work but also celebrates the rich history of decorative art and design.
Exhibits and Collections
The museum’s extensive collection is displayed across three main areas:
- Vance Kirkland Collection: This section of the museum is dedicated to the life and work of Vance Kirkland. It features over 550 of his paintings, spanning his entire career and representing various styles, including surrealism, abstract expressionism, and realism.
- Colorado & Regional Art Collection: This part of the museum highlights the creative contributions of Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region’s artists. It comprises over 7,000 pieces, showcasing a wide range of styles and media from the late 19th century to the present.
- International Decorative Art Collection: The museum’s most extensive collection focuses on decorative art from around the world, with more than 22,000 objects on display. It features pieces from the Arts and Crafts movement, Art Nouveau, Bauhaus, Art Deco, Modern, and Postmodern periods, allowing visitors to explore the evolution of design and decorative art throughout history.
Visitor Information
The Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art is open to visitors year-round, with the exception of major holidays. The museum’s hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Admission fees are as follows:
- Adults: $10.00
- Seniors (65+): $8.00
- Students & Teachers (with ID): $6.00
- Children under 13: Not admitted
Please note that due to the delicate nature of the collections, children under the age of 13 are not permitted in the museum.
