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July 21, 2008
Metropolitan State University of Denver
College’s off-campus art gallery to feature Christo and Jeanne-Claude exhibit
The Democratic National Convention is just one of the historical events happening in downtown Denver in late August.
Metropolitan State College of Denver's Center for Visual Art (CVA) will host the Christo and Jeanne-Claude: Prints and Objects exhibition Aug. 29 through Nov. 1 (with private viewing opportunities Aug. 21-28 during the DNC).
The exhibition includes a Sept. 18 public lecture, which the artists are presenting as a gift to the CVA, and a VIP reception with the artists. This exclusive exhibition of original works has not been seen in the United States since 1992 and with 30 pieces having been added, the collection boasts 130 works.
The timing of this exhibition and related events with these world-renowned artists on Sept. 18, will present unique and exciting opportunities for the College, the community, the state, and for the artists as they plan their "Over the River" installation, slated for 2012 in Colorado’s Arkansas River Valley.
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The CVA is located in LoDo at 1734 Wazee Street. |
Ownership opportunity to increase educational and community programming. For nearly two decades, Metro State has been leasing the space in lower downtown Denver that houses the CVA. Due to a long-time partnership and relationship with the current owners, the College now has the option to purchase the space. By raising an estimated $2 million in private donations, the College plans to purchase and renovate the building and its adjacent gallery, which will allow the CVA, located at 1734 Wazee St., to increase educational and community programming space.
With a strong commitment from Metro State's President Stephen Jordan, Board of Trustees and Foundation Board, the CVA has received a lead $425,000 challenge grant from the Boettcher Foundation.
"In 2010, the CVA will celebrate its 20th anniversary by reaching its goal of establishing a permanent community legacy dedicated to art and education," says Jordan. "Over the last decade, it's clear the CVA has served as an important component to Colorado's preeminent art programs.
"Our $2 million goal will allow us to expand and grow our responsibility of providing underserved populations access to world-class exhibits and artists," he added.
"The Christo and Jeanne-Claude: Prints and Objects exhibition is an example of how the CVA works to mirror Denver's diverse community, says CVA Director/Curator Jennifer Garner. “We stage eye-opening exhibitions by provocative artists who are accessible to people from the city's many diverse backgrounds and cultures.”
With additional support, the CVA plans to extend its Art Outreach program to more at-risk communities. This program embodies Metro State's "urban land grant" mission of bringing solutions to urban problems through higher education, experiential learning and community programs that result in economic development, accessible culture resources and social cohesion.
Metro State is the only public higher education program in the region to maintain accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Currently 950 art majors enjoy instruction from art faculty with diverse and creative backgrounds.
Levels of support and lead-gift naming opportunities range from $5,000 to $750,000. For more information, contact Assistant Vice President of Development Maureen McKenna at 303-556-5158 or mmckenn8@mscd.edu
The exhibition and Sept. 18 lecture are free and open to the public. For information about lecture tickets visit www.metrostatecva.org.
