Inspiring Impressionism

Head up to the second floor, past the dizzying view of flashing numbers and abstract angles, toward perhaps, one of the most stunning art exhibits to come to Denver in years. Opening in late February, "Inspiring Impressionism" showcases 100 works of art, not only from the movement's biggest names, including Édouard Manet, Claude Monet, and Paul Cézanne, but also of the "Old Masters" that inspired their work. The exhibit is set to continue through May 25, 2008.

"Nine years in the making, the ambitious show contains 100 paintings and drawings from 70 public and private collections worldwide," writes Kyle MacMillan, fine arts critic for The Denver Post.

Arranged thematically by color, the exhibit is well organized, with ample room framing each piece, and with plenty of walking space for visitors.

With strong, but simple bands of color, visitors can easily compare the works of an Impressionist to an "Old Master." One example showcased at the exhibit are some of Manet's works that were clearly inspired by French artist Frans Hals and Spanish mannerist Diego Velázquez.

Each wall juxtaposes an Impressionist to his/her inspirer.

The light purple wall, for instance, located towards the back end of the An-schutz gallery, displays works by Mary Cassatt and Pierre-August Renoir, both of whom modernized the classic Renaissance theme of "mother and child" with a brighter, bolder use of color and looser paint stroke.

Visitors are also provided with an audio device. Many paintings throughout the exhibit provide playful fact bits of the artists. Gallery guides recommend visitors listen to both the "adult" and "children" snippets.

Despite popular myth, the Impressionists did not "reject" classical or traditional forms of art. Rather, they transformed their viewpoint and philosophy of perspective. Rather than emulate the historical figures of Renaissance themes, the Impressionists wanted to capture modern Parisian life. Towards the end of the 19th century, Paris was a bustling mecca of artists and tourists alike.

The exhibit simply, but elegantly captures this bustling energy through the colorful wall arrangement and kiosks that focus on the artists' brushwork.