Imagine stepping into a time capsule where art deco meets pop art. Here at the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art, prepare to be amazed by a symphony of styles. This museum isn’t just a collection. It is an experience.
The Kirkland Museum stands as a testament to Colorado’s vibrant artistic heritage and international design. It all began with Vance Kirkland. He was a renowned Colorado artist whose studio and art school building now form the heart of this unique institution. Kirkland’s legacy lives on through the museum’s collections and its innovative approach to display.
In 2016, Kirkland’s original three-room studio was moved eight blocks to this very spot. It is now part of the new Kirkland Museum. Imagine the precision it took to move that historic building. Today, the Kirkland Museum is recognized as a member of Historic Artists’ Homes and Studios. It stands alongside the homes of art legends like Jackson Pollock and Georgia O’Keeffe.
Inside the Kirkland Museum, you will find three principal collections. They showcase international decorative arts, Colorado and regional art, and a retrospective of Vance Kirkland’s own work. The museum houses over 30000 works. These works are from more than 1500 artists and designers.
What sets the Kirkland Museum apart is its salon-style display. Fine art and decorative art are exhibited together. This creates a rich tapestry of design periods. You might see a painting next to a piece of furniture from the same era. This allows you to see the connections between different art forms. The Kirkland Museum’s comparative display is also very special. It allows visitors to compare different design styles side by side. College students can explore Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau, and more.
Vance Kirkland left his estate to Hugh Grant. Grant is the Founding Director and Curator of the Kirkland Museum. Kirkland painted over 1200 paintings in his lifetime. His work spans many styles from Realism to Abstract Expressionism. The museum displays a rotating selection of Kirkland’s paintings from all five of his periods. Be sure to look out for his late dot paintings. They are really special.
The Kirkland Museum opened in April 2003. In March 2018, the museum reopened in this new building. The new building was designed by Jim Olson. It provides more space to display the museum’s treasures. The Kirkland Museum stands as a vibrant celebration of art, design, and the enduring legacy of Vance Kirkland. Take a moment to appreciate the building’s exterior. The building is clad in golden terra cotta and glass.