Then, Now, Next: Evolution of an Architectural Icon

Punctuating the DAM's upcoming North Building revitalization project, Then, Now, Next: Evolution of an Architectural Icon is an exhibition on the renowned modernist building, its history, and its future. The exhibition will feature historical photos, original architectural sketches, building models, and project renderings to tell the story of the North Building’s evolution.

Tracing the building's history, Then, Now, Next showcases architect Gio Ponti’s original vision for the building, and explores how the North Building has served an expanding and diversifying community since opening its doors in 1971. It features the museum’s future plans and outlines the guiding principles for the revitalization project: Responsibly managing and caring for buildings and collections, offering a superior visitor experience, unifying the campus, and inviting the whole community to enjoy the museum and its programs.

Gio Ponti and James Sudler Associates, *Model of the Denver Art Museum*, 1966. Painted cardboard. Collection of the Denver Art Museum, 1991.859.

Paolo Gasparini, *Portrait of Gio Ponti*, about 1955. Courtesy Gio Ponti Archives.

Exterior view of the North Building, 1971. Photograph © Wayne Thom.

Entrance to the North Building, 1971. Photograph © Wayne Thom.

Exterior view of the North Building, 2015. Photograph © James Florio.

Proposed architectural rendering of North Building from the Cultural Center Complex Garage. Courtesy of Fentress Architects and Machado Silvetti.

Proposed architectural rendering of an aerial view of the North Building at dusk. Courtesy of Fentress Architects and Machado Silvetti.

Then, Now, Next: Evolution of an Architectural Icon is organized by the Denver Art Museum. It is supported by the generous donors to the Annual Fund Leadership Campaign and the citizens who support the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD).