Press Release- The Denver Art Museum presents John E. Thompson and Colorado Modernism

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Featured photo: John E. Thompson, Woods Interior, 1920. Oil paint on canvas; 15-1/8 x 18-1/4 in. The Collection of The Kirkland at the Denver Art Museum, K2021.72.007

Media Contact: Andy Sinclair/Press Office, pressoffice@denverartmuseum.org

B. J. O. Nordfeldt, Portrait of Marion G. Hendrie, 1936. Oil paint on canvas; 43 × 37 in. Denver Art Museum: Gift of the Marion G. Hendrie Collection, 1968.39

DENVER – June 17, 2026 – The Denver Art Museum (DAM) presents John E. Thompson and Colorado Modernism, on view July 19, 2026, through summer 2028, on level seven of the Martin Building and included with general admission. The show will feature 28 artworks that celebrate the life, legacy, and community of John Edward Thompson, who is credited with bringing the aesthetics of European modernism to the Rocky Mountain region. Thanks to the support of local collectors and The Kirkland, this exhibition honors the artists and patrons who changed the course of artistic production in Colorado.

“John Edward Thompson is an example of someone who thought outside the box and encouraged artists and others to do the same,” said Christoph Heinrich, Frederick and Jan Mayer Director of the Denver Art Museum. “Modernism has often been thought of as occurring only in the U.S. coastal regions, but it is not an artistic practice or expression limited geographically. Modernism can be shaped and shared anywhere by anyone, and Thompson’s career reflects that.”

“John Edward Thompson is one of the most important and least known Colorado artists,” said JR Henneman, Director of the Petrie Institute of Western American Art (PIWAA). “He challenged artists and collectors in the region to open their eyes and minds to a range of styles and techniques. Importantly, he also supported a diverse range of students, including women and immigrants. He, like the other artists and patrons featured in this exhibition, believed art is for everyone.”

John E. Thompson, Organization of Rocks and Trees, about 1919. Oil paint on canvas; 26-3/4 x 24-3/4 in. Collection of Deborah and Warren Wadsworth.

Planning Your Visit

The most up-to-date information on planning a visit to the Denver Art Museum can be found online under the Plan Your Visit tab. Use this page to find details on ticket pricing, public transit options, and access information. General admission for museum members is free every day. Youth aged 18 and under receive free general admission every day thanks to the museum’s Free for Kids program. Free for Kids also underwrites free admission for school and youth group visits.

About the Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum is an educational, nonprofit resource that sparks creative thinking and expression through transformative experiences with art. Its mission is to enrich lives by sparking creative thinking and expression. Its holdings reflect the city and region—and provide invaluable ways for the community to learn about cultures from around the world. Metro residents support the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), a unique funding source serving hundreds of metro Denver arts, culture and scientific organizations.

For museum information, visit www.denverartmuseum.org or call 720-865-5000.

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