Denver Art Museum - Monet: The Truth of Nature

One of my family's favorite spots here in town is the Denver Art Museum.  Several years ago, my wife and kids visited on a free Saturday while I was out of town.  They liked it so much that we all went back the next weekend when I was around.  Ever since we have made multiple visits to the museum each year.  This weekend, my wife and I went, without the kids, for a special exhibit.

The museum actually consists of two buildings connected by a covered walkway that spans 13th Avenue.  The North Building, opened in 1971, is a seven-story structure that some would say resembles a castle.  This part of the museum is currently closed due to a multi-year renovation project.  The North Building primarily houses what I would refer to as more "historical" pieces of art.  Various sections highlight art from China, Japan, India, Mesoamerica, and other spots around the globe.  Other sections highlight extensive collections of Native American art and works depicting the history of the American west.  Since our family really enjoys history, these are the exhibits that keep bringing us back to the museum.  Thankfully, some items from these collections continue to be displayed in the museum's other building during the construction.

The second building, The Frederick C Hamilton Building, opened in 2006.  This angled building is one of the more unique architectural designs in all of Denver.  To be honest, the building is a bit disorienting for me.  The slanting walls often make me feel like about to fall over.  This building houses the more modern works of art, as well as some special galleries...which is why we were there this weekend.

The primary reason for our visit was Monet: The Truth of Nature; a huge exhibit of over 120 of the French impressionist's paintings.  Denver was the only US city to have the privilege of hosting this exhibit.  The three-month engagement ends next weekend.  Monet is my wife's favorite painter, so this is an event we couldn't miss.

The exhibit really was amazing.  It was also extremely crowded...but that didn't hinder our enjoyment.  The museum offered audio players which provided commentary on a number of the paintings.  I listened to several of the selections, but my wife chose to just let the paintings speak for themselves.  

If you didn't get to catch Monet, well, it's too late.  Though one more week remains, tickets are completely sold out.  Fear not, though, more once-in-a-lifetime exhibits are on their way.  It was recently announced that an exhibit featuring the works of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera will be arriving in October of this year.