If you’re the artistic type, you already know that creating art is a terrific form of self-expression. Truly great art is more than just an outlet for creative expression, though—it can inspire us to become better versions of ourselves, to reach for the stars instead of staying safely locked within our comfort zones. Here are a few noteworthy Colorado destinations that are currently offering prime examples of this inspiration.
Denver’s Museum of Contemporary Art
This museum serves up a perfect blend of classic and progressive techniques, with a bevy of cool exhibits showcasing a diverse lineup, from Georgia O’Keeffe to local tattoo artists. If you have certain preconceived notions of what art is or what it should be, MCA Denver is the perfect place to cast off those prejudices. If you’re looking for inspiration for your own artwork, there are plenty of different wells to draw from here. MCA Denver also offers intensive six-week workshops just for teens—ask Mom and Dad to keep that in mind when your next birthday rolls around.
Source: MCA Denver
Chapungu Sculpture Park
Loveland’s Chapungu Sculpture Park is home to 82 hand-carved stone sculptures that inspires the annual Sculpture in the Park show and sale, which is the largest outdoor juried exhibition in America. Founded in 1970 by Roy Guthrie, the exhibition was formerly known as African Art Promotions. Since its inception, it has amassed an impressive collection of Zimbabwe Stone Sculpture (also known as Shona Sculpture)—a collection that has to be seen in person to be appreciated. The open-air setting serves as the perfect backdrop to the majestic stone sculptures, as if they’ve emerged from the mantle of the earth itself. It’s a winning combination that will inspire you to bring a little bit of nature into your next project.
Source: Centerra
Denver Art Museum
Denver’s art mecca goes beyond the traditional boundaries of painting and sculpture, and includes exhibits to interest wannabe fashion designers, storytellers, and more. General admission is free on the first Saturday of every month, so you can take advantage of their offerings even if frequent museum visits aren’t in your family’s budget. Spend the afternoon browsing through the halls and learn how art can be used as an ingredient, rather than the whole recipe.
Source: Trip Advisor
Whether you view art as a hobby or a lifelong passion, you should expose yourself to as many varied styles as possible, so you’ll gain a good idea of the theories and concepts you’d most like to explore. And the best news of all? You’re never too young to start.
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