When I first moved to Denver in 2006, I went on several dates at the Denver Art Museum, imagining the romance of strolling hand in hand through the galleries. But I soon realized I wasn’t seeing the art on my own terms. Twenty years later, I’ve rediscovered the joy of visiting Denver’s museums solo—and the art has never felt so personal.
There is something profound about absorbing art as an individual experience, and many artists themselves recognize this. The Clyfford Still Museum holds nearly all of the artist’s work—over 3,000 pieces— and not one of them is titled. Clyfford was adamant that the observer derive their own artistic meaning, free from outside influence, including his own. The Still reports that 36 percent of the museum’s visitors come alone, and it is easy to see why. The space lends itself to quiet contemplation: expansive canvases are coupled with benches for concentrated viewing, and two outdoor multisensory terraces allow for peaceful solitude. The Still hosts monthly meditations in the galleries, a great place to start your solo experiences, as it offers a chance to enjoy solitude among others.
About the Author: Dylah Ray is a devoted arts advocate who spends her free time exploring Denver’s galleries and museums. As the owner of Petals & Pages, an independent bookstore in the Santa Fe Art District, and a novelist herself, she brings a curator’s heart and a writer’s eye to her work—spotlighting the artists and ideas shaping Denver’s creative landscape.
Step into the Frame
Looking to visit a museum on your own? Here are a few places to start.
At the Denver Art Museum, The Honest Eye: Camille Pissarro’s Impressionism brings together more than 100 paintings by one of the most influential Impressionist painters. Linger on The Pont-Neuf, Afternoon, Sunlight, as there are few settings more serene to slip into than the sun-drenched Seine. Some reveries belong entirely to you. (Running through February 8)
The Clyfford Still Museum’s Tell Clyfford I Said “Hi,” is an exhibit gaining national attention for its unique co-curation with 100 students. Follow the lead of the kids and let your younger self guide you through your own reflections. After all, no one knows your inner child like you do. (Running through May 10)
The Madden Gallery at the Museum of Outdoor Arts is exhibiting a solo show by Colorado painter Todd Siler with over 50 works spanning 50 years. The exhibit is on display in the gorgeous 10,000-square-foot atrium space at Fiddler’s Green. A solo show deserves a solo visit, so get ready for one-on-one time with Todd’s work. (Running through February 13)
The Denver Botanic Gardens has an exhibit on loan from the Museo de las Americas, Agave: Symbol and Spirit, which tells the story of the plant’s many uses through artistic artifacts. The Gardens offer a guided tour through the galleries so you can leave the talking to the experts while you focus on the art. (Running through March 22)
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