Museum of Contemporary Art Denver breaks ground

DENVER -- The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver (MCA) recently broke ground on a world-class facility, designed by an internationally renowned architect, to house its expanding programs that focus on creating and understanding dialogue about art of the 21st century.

The building was designed by acclaimed architect David Adjaye, whose recent work includes the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo, Norway, and the Idea Stores in London.

"When I visit Colorado, I am always struck by the quality of the light and the incredible landscape and space here," says Adjaye, who attended the groundbreaking. "I can't imagine a more perfect place to build a contemporary art museum for the 21st century."

An important goal of the new building is to attain the prestigious Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Different levels of LEED certification may be achieved, depending on the number of desired attributes incorporated into a structure's design, construction and furnishings. A final rating will not be known until the building is finished and many qualities can be verified.

When the museum opens in June 2007, the 27,000-square-foot facility will feature five galleries on two levels with two educational spaces, one in the lower level and one on the roof with a garden. Unlike many museums today, it will be constructed from funds raised solely from private donors and foundations. The cost is expected to be approximately $15 million.

Over the past five years, MCA's director and curator, Cydney Payton, has led the young organization into a period of tremendous growth through a consistent program of critically acclaimed exhibits. She has been instrumental in securing a gift of land in downtown Denver valued at $1 million and raising $9 million to date for the new facility.

"The new building delivers a place to connect with the work of living artists that will be enhanced by the directness and elegance of the architecture," says Payton. "It will be a beacon for patrons of contemporary art everywhere."

For more information, call 303-298-7554; visit www.mcadenver.org.