MCA DENVER's Open Shelf Library is a unique living archive that reflects the Museum's mission as a non-collecting, contemporary presenter of visual culture in the making. The Open Shelf Library holds a collection of ideas in the form of materials gathered by exhibiting artists. Through this program, artists reveal the sources from which they draw creative concepts. As a resource, the Open Shelf Library captures a glimpse into the working practice of contemporary artists. This collection also provides an institutional history of exhibitions at MCA DENVER.

With contributions ranging from books, movies, music, journals, games, found objects, models, sculptures, and digital works, the Open Shelf Library is a real-time record of processes and motivations behind art of our time. An invaluable educational guide, the Open Shelf Library addresses diverse learning styles by making tactile, literary, audio, and interactive tools available to the public. Computers in this space provide work stations for further research of the Open Shelf Library content contributions, past and present exhibiting artists, educational interactive programs, and digital response forums. The Open Shelf Library materials are used for educational programming including the Open Shelf Book Club and Open Shelf Films on Fridays.


Above: Photo by Dean Kaufman.

Through the Open Shelf Book Club, members of MCA DENVER are invited to participate in a discussion with an exhibiting local, national or international artist about their Open Shelf Library content. A conversational overview of their selected materials is offered during an informal meeting of the Book Club. The Book Club artist further deepens our understanding of their interests by discussing their chosen book. Individual reactions to the book and connections to the work of the artist are explored. Fiction, non-fiction, poetry and autobiography all have their place within the creative lexicon of MCA DENVER's exhibiting artists.


Above: Open Shelf Book Club with Ana María Hernando. Photo by Michael Albert.

Open Shelf Films on Fridays offers screenings of films that have influenced exhibiting artists. Selected from the artist's Open Shelf or by a guest curator, the featured films encompass all themes and genres, and are themed by month.

The audience lounges in bean bags, drinks refreshments from the MCA CAFE, and nibbles on popcorn while indulging in the creative consciousness behind art.


Above: Photo by Allen Clutter.