Although the Impressionist painters are known for creating an innovative new style, much in their technique and composition echoes the work of their predecessors. Masterpieces by artists including Manet, Degas, Monet and Renoir are exhibited alongside works by Raphael, Titian, El Greco and Velázquez, exploring the European Old Masters' influence on 19th century Impressionism.
"This is the first exhibition to focus specifically on the important relationship between the Impressionists and Old Masters," said Timothy J. Standring, Gates Foundation Curator of Painting and Sculpture. Exhibition highlights include traditional landscapes, still lifes and portraits by Old Masters such as Claude Lorrain, Jean-Siméon Chardin and Frans Hals paired with Impressionist works. Pairings such as Claude Monet's The Zuiderkerk, Amsterdam (Looking up the Groenburgwal) (1874) and Meindert Hobbema The Haarlem Lock, Amsterdam (1663-5) explore connections through similar artistic technique, composition and subject matter.
Celebrate the Best Spring Break Ever at the DAM. General Museum admission is free for kids ages 18 and under Saturday, March 22 through Sunday, March 30, and the DAM provides tons of art-inspired activities for the entire family. Kids can sketch their favorite animal at the Sweet Tooth Studio, a roaming activity cart, or build their own bug to add to the indoor garden in Duncan Pavilion. The DAM's everyday offerings for families are also available all week including postcard making, posing on saddles, mixing African music and dancing in light bubbles.
Special during Best Spring Break Ever: tickets to Inspiring Impressionism are half-price for kids 18 and under. On March 29, LEGO artist Duane Hess creates a mosaic masterpiece from the DAM collection. Families are invited to join in or create a LEGO artwork of their own. Pick up an entry form at the Family Activity Cart to turn in at Macy's in Cherry Creek for a chance to win great prizes, including DAM family memberships and $600 in Macy's gift cards.
Take Two: Film and its Inspirations, the DAM Cinema's spring film series presents a unique program on cinematic influence and homage. Screened in conjunction with Inspiring Impressionism, the eight-film series spotlights the rich and diverse influences celebrated classics had on succeeding films and their impressionable makers. Pairings range from The Maltese Falcon and Chinatown to The Searchers and Taxi Driver. Hosted by DAM film curator, Thomas Delapa, the film series will screen Fridays, April 4-May 16, 7 p.m. in Sharp Auditorium, Hamilton Building. -- www.denverartmuseum.org
