KIRKLAND MUSEUM OF FINE & DECORATIVE ART

Denver

News: Hugh Grant, founding director and curator of the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art, has announced he is retiring from the day-to-day operations of the 20-year-old museum located in Denver’s Golden Triangle.

Grant, 78, founded the museum with his former wife, Merle C. Chambers, the chairwoman of the museum’s board of directors. Grant has devoted most of his life to curating, preserving and promoting the works of Vance Kirkland and countless other fine and decorative artists.

Grant’s friendship with Vance Kirkland was transformative. He documented Kirkland’s artistic processes, curated exhibitions of his work and was the beneficiary of Kirkland’s estate after his death in 1981. Rather than following Kirkland’s advice to sell the artist’s studio and art school building at 1311 Pearl St., Grant dedicated himself to preserving Kirkland’s legacy.

That commitment laid the foundation for the Kirkland Museum as it is known today.

The museum’s 20th year, Grant said, is the “opportune moment to gracefully pass the torch of leadership. The museum stands in excellent shape, a testament to the dedication and passion of our incredible team. Now, it’s time to entrust fresh minds and innovative perspectives with the task of charting a path for the next vibrant chapter in our journey.”

“I have every confidence in the bright future that lies ahead for Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art,” Grant added. 

Chambers said Hugh’s “dedication and unwavering commitment” to Kirkland Museum have been “instrumental in shaping its legacy.”

“We thank him for the indelible mark he has left on our institution. As we move forward, we assure you that our dedicated team, under the guidance of deputy curator Christopher Herron and the board, will continue to honor the museum’s heritage while embracing new opportunities,” Chambers said.

About the organization: Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art is located at 12th Avenue and Bannock Street. Its mission is to inspire people through the beauty of art and design presented in a unique and appropriate way. Its displays include the original studio and art school building of acclaimed Denver artist Vance Kirkland. It serves the public and scholars through exhibitions, the loan of works and public programs.

Website: kirklandmuseum.org

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