In a cow town known for it’s latest sports hero, top shredder or triathlete bound for the Olympics, Denver’s Fall lineup of fine art and film events aims to break barriers. Perhaps those dialed-in realize the significance of the Clyfford Still legacy and now the opening of the official – and only museum – dedicated to one artist per his will.
The 1950 photograph by Nina Leen of The Irascibles features Clyfford Still next to Jackson Pollack
In the current issue of a local magazine, 5280, you will find a well rounded, excellent description of how Clyfford Still became an influence in abstract expressionism during the 30’s to 80’s. His life was not just spent focused on his nearly 3000 paintings but against the establishment that now has the authority to tout his achievements. The Museum, located in Denver’s Museum Mile and Golden Triangle, wants you to experience the “rugged” and “western” individualism that Still lived his life. From the architectural renderings, the building is likely to be a cold environment, void of anything but the canvas on the walls. Unlike the angles of Libeskind, the experience may actually transform rather than disturb your understanding of the numerous untitled paintings (approximately 110 for the opening debut).
Governor Hickenlooper whose business acumen in hops and pubs, city management and now reshaping Colorado into more than a jet setters hideaway for mountain resorts, has the pride of a city waiting for a rebirth. Tattoo and street artists awake – your inspiration can jump to canvas and one day too have influence.
