Aspen Art Museum

Nestled in the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, the Aspen Art Museum stands as a beacon of contemporary creativity. It doesn't just collect art; it collects experiences. This is where the freshest ideas in international contemporary art come alive through its groundbreaking exhibitions, educational programs, and lively community events. It's a place where art, culture, and society intersect in the most intriguing ways.

Back in 1976, the people of Aspen made a choice that would forever change their cultural landscape. They decided to transform an old building at 590 North Mill Street into a hub for the arts. This structure, dating back to 1888, was originally the Hunter Creek Power Plant. It played a key role in Aspen's history, powering the city's silver mining operations and giving it the distinction of being the first city west of the Mississippi to light up its streets with hydroelectric energy.

The community saw potential in this historical relic and rallied to repurpose it into an art space. By November 1977, the Aspen Center for the Visual Arts was officially incorporated in Colorado. The following year, in August 1978, Philip Yenawine was appointed as its inaugural director. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for Aspen, one where art would be at the heart of the community. Today, the Aspen Art Museum continues to push boundaries and challenge perceptions. Its dynamic programming ensures that there's always something new to discover. Whether you're an art aficionado or just curious, this museum offers a thought-provoking journey into the world of contemporary art. So, if you find yourself in Aspen, this is one cultural hotspot you won't want to miss.