Unique displays of Asian, pre-Columbian, Spanish Colonial, and Native American art are the hallmarks of this model of museum design. Among the museum's regular holdings are John DeAndrea's sexy, soothing, life-size polyvinyl painting Linda (1983); Claude Monet's dreamy flowerscape Le Bassin des Nympheas (1904); and Charles Deas' red-cowboy-on-horseback Long Jakes, The Rocky Mountain Man (1844). The works are thoughtfully lighted, though dazzling mountain views through hallway windows sometimes steal your attention. Imaginative hands-on exhibits and video corners will appeal to children; the Adventures in Art Center has hands-on art classes and exploration for children and adults. With the opening of the $90.5 million Frederic C. Hamilton building in October 2007, the museum doubled in size. Designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, the 146,000-square-foot addition prompts debate: Some to say the glass and titanium design has ruined the view, while others think the building is a work of art in its own right. To the east of the museum is an outdoor plaza—you'll know it by the huge, orange metal sculpture—that leads to the Denver Public Library next door.
Reviewed by flsd from wv on 7/16/08
DAM offers a little of something for everyone - contemporary, classic, adults, children - all providing a wonderful educational experience. One could spend an entire day there (with a break for lunch at the very nice DAM restaurant, Palettes). If you're not a Colo. resident, at least take your AAA card for a $1 discount.
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip