Denver, CO

Nature gets a slick, high-tech treatment at the Denver Art Museum

Published

3 weeks ago

May 27, 2024

Nature gets a slick, high-tech treatment at the Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum’s new “Biophilia” gives people what they want in an art exhibition these days: multi-sensory objects that come in blazing colors, that light up before the eyes, that change shape and stature in response to the movement of whatever body is in the room.

It is an interactive and high-tech affair, and about as far away from a traditional display of pretty pictures hanging on a gallery wall as you can get. “Biophilia” is a cool show that might make for a swell outing on a hot summer day.

“Meadow,” created by the Dutch design team Drift, relies on “advanced robotics and complex software create a field of blooms in perpetual motion.” (Provided by the Denver Art Museum)

Consider the installation “Meadow,” created by the Dutch design team Drift, for which “advanced robotics and complex software create a field of blooms in perpetual motion.” The piece consists of a few dozen pendant lamps, shaped like fluffy flowers, whose fabric petals open and close in a speeded-up rhythm meant to mirror the change from day to night.

Low, flat sofas are placed strategically on the gallery floor, directly beneath the piece, and visitors can lie on their backs and stare up at the light show hanging from the ceiling.

The point: to reflect and reconnect with nature, according to the museum’s signage. Thus, “Meadow” is right in line with “Biophilia’s” overall theme of demonstrating how designers and artists respond to nature.

As a concept for an exhibition, that is not deep and it is not new. Nature has always been a dominant theme in design, probably the most persistent source of inspiration that ever existed, and there is millennia-long tour through the history of art, textiles, fashion and furniture to prove the point.

We could start, late in the game, with the flowery patterns of medieval tapestries; stop randomly at the flowery patterns of wallpaper created by still-adored British designer William Morris in the 19th century; and complete the trip right where “Biophilia” picks it up, with the display of a pair of flowery, runway-ready gowns by Iris van Herpen, one of the brightest stars of the fashion world right now.

What is closer to new is the use of technology in the creation and display of many works. Clothing designers used to rely on silk and wool, products manufactured by animals themselves. Van Herpen’s dresses are made from laser-cut Mylar and cotton that has been “heat-bonded onto organza.” The dresses are a marvel — bouncy, sexy, comfy and lighter-than-air. This show could use more of them.

“Biophilia,” organized by the museum’s design curator Darrin Alfred, has a variety of objects on its checklist. There are bowls, tables, sofas and chandeliers in the mix. Fans of what museums used to commonly call decorative arts will find plenty to like, as well as familiar materials, in the show’s inclusion of delicate marble “Tau” vases, by the late Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid; or in Czech designer David Valner’s “Fungus” vases, made from glass.

The show’s selfie moment comes from Nacho Carbonell’s “One-seater Concrete Tree.” (Provided by the Denver Art Museum)

There are also wool rugs from Argentinian weaver Alexandra Kehayoglou that resemble topographical maps of threatened land in the Amazon forest; and a bight, red leather “Bulbo” chair, formed into a flower bud, from Brazilian brothers Humberto and Fernando Campana.

But visitors are more likely to fixate on the digital, or interactive, attractions, and those are the stars of this show. That includes the 2020 piece “Flowers and People — A Whole Year Per Hour,” by the art collective TeamLab, which formed in Tokyo. The work is a six-channel, digital projection of an animated field of pink and yellow petals that float across the gallery wall. It comes with instructions for viewers: “Stand still at a certain distance and the flowers grow more abundantly — move around, and they fade.”

Again, the purpose is quite simple, and even hackneyed, suggesting that humans and nature are inseparable. The piece does not break any artistic or intellectual ground, but it is thrilling to look at, and to play with.

Where “Biophilia” succeeds best is in ambition. Curator Alfred has a handle on the international design scene and brought in some of the most respected, and in-demand, global names. In addition to van Herpen and Drift, there are “Remolten” stools and tables, from the Chilean design firm gt2P, made from local volcanic rock that has been pulverized and used as a ceramic glaze.

Fredrikson Stallard carved this sofa from a block of polyurethane foam. (Ray Mark Rinaldi, Special to The Denver Post)

There is Spanish designer Nacho Carbonell’s “One-seater Concrete Tree,” a table-lamp combo that visitors can actually sit in (and take photos); a petal-covered “Hortensia” armchair by Argentine artist Andrés Reisinger, who is known best for his digital works; and a model of Beijing-based MAD Architects’ urban design masterpiece, the Nanjing Zendai Himalayas Center, a set of sky-scraping buildings whose silhouettes come together to resemble a mountain landscape.

MAD is the same firm that designed One River North, the new residential building — with the giant canyon cut into its facade — that just opened in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, and that gives the exhibition a local hook.

In the same vein, there is an impressive architectural model of Populus, the building — designed by Chicago’s Studio Gang — that is currently going up next to Denver’s Civic Center, that resembles the trunk of an aspen tree. The model offers new insight to anyone who is curious about the thinking behind the structure.

Art exhibitions that attempt to show new technologies are difficult to pull off. Technology changes so quickly now that even relatively new works lack an edge. The pendant light-based “Meadow,” for example, was made way back in 2017 and it already feels like an old-school classic, rather than something new.

In that way, new is a lot to ask for here — maybe too much, if you want to be fair. But “Biophilia” delivers in other ways.

Design shows that cover so much ground rely on good taste to come together, and this outing has a lot of that on display — for example, Mathieu Lehanneur’s “50 Seas” ceramic plates, whose blue-ish color palette borrows from the world’s great oceans; or Marc Fish’s “Ethereal Double Console” table, which lives up to its name by appearing practical but lighter than air.

It comes together as a grand effort, a treat for local audiences who want to beat the heat and be around some cool stuff.

IF YOU GO

“Biophilia: Nature Reimagined” continues through Aug. 11 at the Denver Art Museum. Info: 720-865-5000 or denverartmuseum.org.

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Denver, CO

Oregon Football’s Bo Nix Impresses Denver Wide Receiver

Published

45 mins ago

June 17, 2024

Press Room

Oregon Football’s Bo Nix Impresses Denver Wide Receiver

More praise for former Oregon quarterback Bo Nix, this time from Denver Bronco Pro Bowl receiver Courtland Sutton.

Sutton is the latest to chime in on the ability of Nix to lead this team into a new era. Simply put, Sutton forecasts early success for Nix.

“If it becomes a three or four-year dynasty, then I hope I will be able to be a part of it.”
– Courtland Sutton, Broncos Receiver

The Broncos drafted Nix with the 12th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft with high expectations for the record setting former Duck.

Sutton acknowledges there is a three-way battle for the starting QB position in Denver. In addition to Nix, rookie Jarrett Stidham and veteran Zach Wilson are all in the mix. However, he does not see this as being a long, multi-year process of hits and misses while battling division rivals Kansas City and the Los Angeles Chargers who tout another former Duck quarterback Justin Herbert and a new coach in Jim Harbaugh.

“We want to win right now,” said Sutton during a recent interview. “I think with Bo being a young guy and a guy they took really high, I understand the politics of the game and everyone is rooting for him to be the guy. I think he does a lot of things really well and I think he has the ability to go out and have success early. I don’t see this being a three or four-year process. If it becomes a three or four-year dynasty, then I hope I will be able to be a part of it.”

Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton runs with the ball against the Detroit Lions.

Dec 16, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton (14) runs with the ball against the Detroit Lions in the third quarter at Ford Field. / Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports

Sutton’s role going forward is not as clear as he would like. Following an outstanding 2023 season in which he caught 59 passes for 772 yards and 10 touchdowns, Sutton has asked Denver for either more money overall and/or more guaranteed money. So far, there has been no movement on either side.

Logically, it makes sense for the Broncos to find a way to keep Sutton onboard. This is the time for quarterbacks and wide receivers to get to know each other. More specifically, Nix would benefit from having a proven receiver to rely on early in his career. Sutton has been that guy for the “musical chairs game” of signal-callers over the past five seasons and there is no reason to think he can’t be the same for Nix.

“I hope that I am a part of the bigger picture,” said Sutton. “I’ve been told that is what the gameplan is. I’ve also been told some other things. We will see what happens. I hope I am able to be a part of the gameplan.”

While there appears to be a great deal of pressure on Nix’s shoulders, Oregon Ducks’ fans have seen proof of his ability to take on that sort of pressure and excel. The Broncos believe this former Oregon star is NFL-ready. We will see in a few short months.

Stay up to date on all things Oregon Ducks by visiting Oregon Ducks on SI daily and following Oregon Ducks on SI on Facebook and X.

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Daily horoscope for June 17, 2024

Published

8 hours ago

June 17, 2024

Press Room

Moon Alert: After 3 a.m. EDT today (12:01 a.m. PDT) there are no restrictions to shopping or important decisions. The Moon is in Scorpio.

Happy Birthday for Monday, June 17, 2024:

You are intelligent, strong, inspirational, imaginative and playful. People admire your example of tolerance and cooperation. It’s important to follow your dreams. Simplicity is the key to life this year. It’s time to create solid foundations, both physically and internally, in your life. Stay grounded and levelheaded.

ARIES

(March 21-April 19)
★★★★
This is a pleasant day; however, it is also a day that is subject to confusion because Mercury is at odds with fuzzy Neptune. Therefore, enjoy your day but be apprehensive. If someone suggests something unusual, give it a sober, second thought. Especially if it’s a family member. Tonight: Relax.

TAURUS

(April 20-May 20)
★★★★
Relations with close friends and partners will be warm and easygoing today. However, you also might find that your everyday conversations are subject to confusion or even deceit and misunderstandings. This is because Mercury is in your House of Communications at odds with fuzzy Neptune. Tread carefully! Tonight: Learn something.

GEMINI

(May 21-June 20)
★★★
Today your ruler Mercury is at odds with fuzzy Neptune, which is a classic indication of confusion and misunderstandings in all your communications with others. People might withhold some information. In turn, you might idealize someone and later be disillusioned. Guard against “pie-in-the-sky” wishes, which might be unrealistic. Tonight: Check your belongings.

CANCER

(June 21-July 22)
★★★
Do not fall for the fancy rhetoric or smooth talk of others regarding religious, political or racial ideals. Today is the classic day to be fooled by your own beliefs. Therefore, if you’re listening to others or listening to the media, don’t be quick to believe all you hear. Think for yourself! Tonight: You’re fine.

LEO

(July 23-Aug. 22)
★★★★
In many ways, this will be a pleasant day for you to relax at home. You will enjoy privacy in familiar surroundings. You might even have some ideas about how to make your home look more attractive. However, if feelings of self-doubt and confusion arise. Let them go. This is temporary. Tonight: Solitude.

VIRGO

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
★★★
Today your ruler Mercury is at odds with illusory Neptune, which will create confusion in your discussions with partners and close friends. Fortunately, the Moon is supportive to you today, which means you feel warm and friendly with everyone. Be leery of important decisions. Tonight: Friends.

LIBRA

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
★★★★
In many ways, this is a lovely day to deal with authority figures — parents, bosses, teachers, VIPs and the police. However, there is one important caveat: These discussions also might be subject to confusion, misinterpretation and even deceit. Therefore, tread carefully! Tonight: You’re admired.

SCORPIO

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
★★★★
Travel plans will appeal to you today. Likewise, you will enjoy talking to people from other cultures and different countries. However, disappointment in romance might be the result of unrealistic expectations from someone, especially someone who is “different.” Agree to nothing important. Tonight: Study, learn.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
★★★
You will seek privacy and peace and quiet today because you need to catch your breath. Meanwhile, don’t agree to anything important regarding financial matters, especially shared property, inheritances and insurance settlements. Postpone these decisions for a few days. Tonight: Check your finances.

CAPRICORN

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
★★★★
Relations with friends or members of groups are warm and friendly today. However, this can make you vulnerable in terms of agreeing with others about everyday decisions, because communications are also confusing today. Therefore, postpone important agreements. Wait a few days. Tonight: Socialize.

AQUARIUS

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
★★★
You’re high-viz today. People notice you more than usual. In fact, you project a positive image to co-workers as well as others who might be related to your health care. Ironically, be careful about decisions related to your job and health care issues. They could be wrong. Tonight: Work.

PISCES

(Feb. 19-March 20)
★★★★
Today you long for a change of scenery to meet different people and see different places. This might be possible. However, be extra careful regarding matters related to children; some confusion is present. Be aware of this. Meanwhile, romance might disappoint because of unexpressed expectations. Tonight: Relax.

BORN TODAY

Tennis legend Venus Williams (1980), actress Marie Avgeropoulos (1986), actor Greg Kinnear (1963)

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Denver man’s family saves his life twice, allowing him to become a father

Published

15 hours ago

June 16, 2024

Press Room

Denver man’s family saves his life twice, allowing him to become a father

DENVER (KDVR) — A local brother’s heroic actions helped his sibling become a father. The bond between two brothers is special.

“When you’re growing up, your big brother is your hero,” Stephen Krieger said.

Stephen’s hero, his older brother Chris, started experiencing kidney failure when Stephen was just a teen.

“I didn’t realize how sick I was and I ended up in the E.R., and they said, ‘We have to start on dialysis right away. And you need a kidney transplant’,” Chris said. “I was very blessed that my brother-in-law, Zach, was tested, among more than a few family members who were tested.”

Chris’ brother-in-law donated his kidney in 2003, allowing him to achieve one of his greatest goals.

“I think about it from the perspective of a dad,” Chris said. “My first transplant gave me the opportunity to build a life and be a dad. Now I get to watch my girls grow up,” he said.

However, about a decade later, something doctors had previously warned of happened.

“I started getting sicker and sicker until I was at the point where I was on the transplant list,” Chris said. “And my brother actually approached me and said he wanted to be tested as a donor.”

Stephen tested and learned he was eligible to donate his kidney to his brother in 2022.

“I got to save, my hero, which is like a comic book, you know,” Stephen said.

The family stepped in twice to save Chris, giving him the chance to live a healthy life as a dad.

“Just the fact that I have, you know, such an incredible brother and brother-in-law who are giving, such wonderful people and just a family that is just so incredible, my faith has been strengthened,” Chris said.

The gift of life, teaching the Krieger children an invaluable lesson in love, family and fatherhood.

“Getting to see that picture of your kids watching you make a sacrifice and help somebody is a really beautiful and amazing thing,” Stephen said. “To watch Chris be a dad is incredible. He’s the best. He cares for his girls incredibly well.”

Chris is now a dad to two daughters and Stephen is a father to three kids.

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