Anne Evans- Colorado’s Cultural Visionary - an exhibition May 4, 2012

Anne Evans: Colorado’s Cultural Visionary

A Collaborative Exhibition by the Byers-Evans House Museum, Central City Opera, and Denver Public Library

May 4 – August 31, 2012

Denver, Colorado – April 18, 2012 – Three of the area’s leading cultural institutions, the Byers-Evans House Museum, the Central City Opera, and the Denver Public Library, will host a three part exhibition featuring the life and work of Anne Evans. The exhibit tells the story of one of the most influential but least known of the leaders in the cultural development of Denver and Colorado. A free opening reception will be held at the Byers-Evans House Gallery, Friday, May 4, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. during the Golden Triangle Museum District’s First Friday Art Walk.

Anne Evans (1871-1941) is regarded as a key architect of the development of Colorado’s cultural institutions and is noted for her visionary leadership and collaborative skills that rallied many different segments in Denver to support her vision. She was a leading force in the development of the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Public Library, the restoration of the Central City Opera House, and initiation of the Central City Summer Festival. As a member of the Denver Municipal Art Commission, she was an aide to Mayor Robert W. Speer in the creation of the Civic Center, the centerpiece of his effort to transform Denver into a City Beautiful.

The exhibit will feature historic photographs, sculptures, and rare originals of Anne Evans’ writings and paintings, telling the story of a woman who cared deeply about developing a rich cultural landscape in Denver and Colorado. The Anne Evans story is one of tireless effort and a life-long commitment to bring learning and cultural opportunities to everyday citizens. The collaboration between three of the area’s leading cultural institutions is intended to recognize Anne Evans as a significant twentieth century leader. The exhibition in the Denver Public Library Western History Department will explore her role in helping Denver develop into a major Western city and cultural leader in the region. The Byers-Evans House Museum exhibit will be something of an Evans Family Album, spotlighting life both in Denver and at the Evans Ranch in the mountains near Evergreen. A display at the Central City Opera will highlight Anne’s work to help restore the opera house and initiate the Central City Summer Festival, celebrating its 80th season this year.

Anne Evans Exhibit Locations and Hours:

Byers-Evans House Museum | 1310 Bannock Street, Denver, 80204 | 303-620-4933 | Gallery Admission Free

Free opening reception held at the Byers-Evans House Gallery, Friday, May 4, from 5-9 p.m. during the Golden Triangle Museum District’s First Friday Art Walk. Hours: Gallery is open 10-4 Monday through Saturday

For guided tour fees and program information, visit www.byersevanshousemuseum.org

Denver Central Library | 10 West Fourteenth Avenue Parkway, Denver, 80204 | 720-865-1111 | Free. Hours: Mon: 10-8, Tue: 10-8, Wed: 10-6, Thu: 10-6, Fri: 10-6, Sat: 1-5, Sun: 1-5 - www.denverlibrary.org

Central City Opera | 124 Eureka Street, Central City, CO 80427 - 303-292-6500 - www.centralcityopera.org

About Denver Public Library

Founded in 1889, the Denver Public Library connects people with information, ideas and experiences to provide enjoyment enrich lives and strengthen our community. With 24 locations throughout the City, DPL provides essential resources to the community including early literacy programs, computer and internet access and training, family and adult programs, and more. DPL is currently ranked in the top five Library systems in the U.S.

About the Byers-Evans House Museum

The Byers-Evans House Museum was home to two prominent Denver families and is one of the city’s most historic landmarks. Built in 1883, it was home to William Byers, founding editor of the Rocky Mountain News. In 1889, it was sold to William Evans, president of the Denver Tramway Company. The museum interprets the lifestyles of the Evans family during the early 20th century through tours, exhibits, special events and programs that emphasize the community involvement of the families of William Byers and William Evans.

About the Central City Opera House Association

Central City Opera House Association is the nation's fifth-oldest opera company, located just 35 miles west of Denver in one of Colorado's official National Landmark Historic Districts. The company continues to present artistically excellent professional opera in an annual summer festival; to offer career-entry training to young singers; to produce education and community service programs; and to preserve and maintain the Opera House and 30 other Victorian-era historic properties.