7Everyday Hero Barbara Kelly is helping visitors at the Denver Art Museum learn all about the Women of Abstract Expressionism exhibit.
The collection of more than 50 paintings celebrates the often unknown female artists of this mid-twentieth-century art movement. The artists worked on the east and West coast during the 1940's and 50's.
Their paintings can inspire and fascinate even the casual observer, but for decades few people saw these works of art. The female artists were virtually unknown.
The Women of Abstract Expressionism exhibit is the first gathering of these works by outstanding female artists together, at one time. So, who better to lead a tour of this groundbreaking exhibit than a docent who's dedicated a lifetime to art appreciation?
"I have been down here since the 1970's, since the other building opened," said Kelly.
Kelly has volunteered at the Denver Art Museum for 46 years.
"She has an encyclopedic knowledge of the Denver Art Museum's permanent collection and she always engages all visitors of all ages on our tours," said Nikki Tomkinson, Volunteer President.
"Volunteering is stimulating, it's challenging. It keeps your mind going, you meet nice people, you meet nice people on the tours," said Kelly.
Kelly has helped at the museum in every way possible, even guiding all the others who give their time as the museum's volunteer president.
"It is probably the most interesting, wonderful place. It has been my life," admitted Kelly.
The Women of Abstract Expressionism exhibit at the Denver Art Museum runs through September 25th.
To learn more go to www.denverartmuseum.org.
Mitch Jelniker anchors Denver7 in the mornings from 4:30 to 7 a.m. He also features a different 7Everyday Hero each week on 7NEWS. Follow Mitch on Facebook and Twitter. Nominate a 7Everyday Hero here.