The Denver Art Museum (DAM) has launched a new photography exhibit titled “What We’ve Been Up To: Landscape,” showcasing works that have never been publicly displayed before. This exhibition features a selection of landscape photographs acquired over the past 17 years, providing a unique glimpse into the evolving art landscape.
Curators at major art institutions, such as DAM, play a pivotal role in both collecting new works and connecting them to the public. They scout for pieces that enhance existing collections and organize exhibitions that can engage and educate visitors. While local communities often know about upcoming shows, they may not realize the extent of new acquisitions, as only a fraction of a museum’s collection is typically on display at any given time.
Exploring New Artistic Horizons
The “What We’ve Been Up To: Landscape” exhibit occupies a modest space within DAM’s Martin Building, making it easy to overlook. However, the show highlights the photography department’s ambition since its establishment in 2008, revealing curators’ tastes and the criteria for what constitutes museum-worthy photography today.
Among the traditional landscapes featured are historic images that capture the essence of nature, such as Marion Post Wolcott’s “Drift Fence and Farm Lands from Sugar Hill, near Franconia, New Hampshire” taken in 1940, and William Henry Jackson’s “Milburn, Utah” from 1891. These works resonate with the timeless quality of nature photography exemplified by legends like Ansel Adams.
The exhibit also includes contemporary interpretations of landscapes. Abelardo Morell’s “View of Mt. Sopris, Snowmass, Colorado,” commissioned in 2023, utilizes innovative techniques like the “tent camera” to create captivating images that challenge traditional perspectives.
Documenting Change and Social Issues
In addition to traditional landscapes, the exhibit addresses the impact of human activity on the environment. Steve Fitch’s “Between Trujillo and Las Vegas, New Mexico, September 9, 2006,” captures a radio tower rising starkly from the desert, juxtaposing modern technology against natural beauty. This theme of human encroachment on pristine landscapes evokes both nostalgia and a sense of melancholy.
The exhibit also touches on more somber aspects of history, showcasing works that highlight social issues. For instance, John Ganis’ photograph “Beach Houses after Hurricane Sandy, 959 East Avenue, Mantoloking, New Jersey” from 2013, reflects the devastation wrought by climate change. Similarly, Christina Fernandez’s 2023 piece “Hideo (Heart Mountain)” frames a view from the Heart Mountain concentration camp, serving as a poignant reminder of the injustices faced by Japanese Americans during World War II.
This exhibition raises important questions about how museums should present history. Should they focus on celebrating achievements or acknowledge past mistakes? “What We’ve Been Up To: Landscape” offers a dual narrative, combining beauty with a critical examination of historical events.
The exhibit runs through December 7, 2023, allowing visitors to explore the evolving nature of landscape photography and its reflections on societal values. The DAM is located at 100 W. 14th Ave, and more information can be found at their official website or by calling 720-865-5000.
This showcase not only informs the local community about the museum’s acquisitions but also invites broader reflections on the role of art in society. It exemplifies how institutions navigate the complex terrain of cultural representation, adapting to changing tastes and perspectives while remaining relevant to their audiences.
