Vance Kirkland’s Cosmos

February 15–May 28, 2023

Vance Kirkland (1904–1981), namesake of Kirkland Museum, was among the most important Colorado and regional painters of the 20th century. During the last half of his career, Kirkland’s paintings made a break from the earthly environment and explored outer space, first with his Nebulae paintings, using his unique mixtures of oil paint & water. Kirkland’s move into outer space in 1954 pre-dated the larger public interest in space when the Soviet Union’s satellite Sputnik was launched in 1957. His imagination led him to create numerous series depicting the evolution and expansion of his own universe, culminating in his vibrant Dot Paintings. Our first temporary exhibition of Kirkland’s work in 20 years is co-curated by Founding Director & Curator Hugh Grant and Deputy Curator Christopher Herron and will feature examples from eight series of the visions of Kirkland’s cosmos from 1954 to 1981. The exhibition includes some of the artist’s impressive large-scale paintings, seldom seen on public display.