The Clyfford Still Museum

Nestled in the heart of Denver, Colorado, the Clyfford Still Museum stands as a sanctuary for art enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. This unique institution is dedicated exclusively to the works of Clyfford Still, one of the leading figures in the Abstract Expressionist movement. With a collection that encompasses 93 percent of Still’s lifetime output, the museum offers a profound journey through the artist’s evolving creative vision.

The Birth of a Unique Museum

The story of the Clyfford Still Museum began with the artist's passing in 1980. In his will, Still stipulated that his entire collection be given to an American city willing to create a permanent museum solely for his works. After much deliberation, Patricia Still, Clyfford's wife, chose Denver in 2004, following a visit from then-Mayor John Hickenlooper, who agreed to the terms of Still's will. This decision set the wheels in motion for the establishment of a museum like no other.

In 2006, the museum secured a prime location within Denver's Civic Center Cultural Complex, adjacent to the renowned Denver Art Museum. The board selected Allied Works Architecture, led by Brad Cloepfil, to design the museum. By December 2009, construction had begun, culminating in the museum's grand opening on November 18, 2011.

A Treasure Trove of Art

The Clyfford Still Museum’s collection is a testament to the artist's prolific career. It includes 3,125 works, featuring a wide array of paintings, drawings, and limited-edition fine-art prints. Visitors can explore 130 paintings from 1920 to 1943, showcasing Still's early works, including pieces from his student years, Depression-era creations, and his initial ventures into abstraction.

The museum also houses 302 paintings from 1944 to 1960, a period often referred to as Still's breakthrough period and the height of Abstract Expressionism. These works reflect a profound shift in his style, characterized by bold, sweeping forms and a vibrant color palette. Additionally, the collection includes 350 paintings from 1961 to 1979, created during the final two decades of his life in rural Maryland.

Beyond paintings, the museum boasts an impressive array of 2,300 works on paper. These pieces span the entirety of Still's career and encompass a variety of media, including pastel, crayon, charcoal, gouache, tempera, graphite, and pen and ink. The collection also includes three carved wood and mixed media sculptures, offering a glimpse into Still's exploration of different artistic forms.

Exhibitions and Rotations

The Clyfford Still Museum is not just a static repository of art; it is a dynamic space that continually reinvents itself through rotating exhibitions. On average, the museum rotates its collection two to three times per year, presenting themed exhibitions that delve into various aspects of Still's work and influence.

The museum's inaugural exhibition set the tone for its future endeavors. Since then, it has hosted a series of curated exhibitions, including the Artists Select series, where contemporary artists like Roni Horn, Julian Schnabel, and Mark Bradford have offered their unique perspectives on Still's work. Other notable exhibitions include A Daughter's Eye/A Daughter's Voice, curated by Sandra Still Campbell, and Repeat/Recreate, which featured canvases from prestigious institutions like the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Exploring the Archives

In addition to its extensive art collection, the Clyfford Still Museum houses the complete Clyfford Still Archives (CSA). This treasure trove includes correspondence, sketchbooks, journals, notebooks, the artist's library, photo albums, personal effects, and other archival materials. The archives provide invaluable insights into Still's life and artistic process, as well as his interactions with other notable figures of the Abstract Expressionist era, such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, Clement Greenberg, and Peggy Guggenheim.

The archives are open to the public, offering a growing research database that serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and art enthusiasts. This commitment to accessibility and scholarship underscores the museum's dedication to preserving and promoting Clyfford Still's legacy.

A Space for Reflection and Inspiration

Designed by Allied Works Architecture, the museum itself is a work of art. The 28,500-square-foot building features nine galleries, an art studio, visible painting storage areas, and a conservation lab. The design emphasizes natural light and open spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages contemplation and inspiration. Two outdoor terraces and an outdoor forecourt green space provide additional areas for visitors to relax and reflect.

Whether you are a seasoned art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Clyfford Still Museum offers a unique and enriching experience. Its unparalleled collection, thoughtfully curated exhibitions, and comprehensive archives provide a deep dive into the life and work of one of America's most influential artists. A visit to this museum is not just an exploration of Clyfford Still's art; it is a journey through the evolution of Abstract Expressionism and a testament to the enduring power of creativity.