Uncorked raises funds (and glasses!) for Creative Caravan

Auction underway. Photo Courtesy of the Denver Art Museum

On Friday, June 9, 2023, trustees, patrons and friends of the Denver Art Museum gathered for the 21st annual Uncorked, a fundraising event centered around wine, art and community. Proceeds from Uncorked – raised through sponsorships, ticket revenue and a unique silent auction – will provide multi-year support for Creative Caravan, a new in-community arts program that brings art to neighborhoods across Denver and beyond. The entire evening was a celebration of the Learning & Engagement efforts at the Denver Art Museum, in particular community-based activities that take place outside the museum’s walls. Creative Caravan is the epitome of this work, and thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of supporters, the initiative officially launched that night. Co-Chairs Pat Cortez and Manuel Martinez, Lisë Gander and Andy Main, and Becky and Brian Schaub, along with a devoted committee, helped build the momentum for this successful event.

Kiltro performs. Photo Courtesy of the Denver Art Museum

Upon arrival, attendees enjoyed tastings of Gruet sparkling wines as they perused the silent auction, which was filled with limited-edition artwork, extraordinary experiences, and collectible wines. The cocktail reception, set in the inspiring Morgridge Creative Hub, included fabulous cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, wine tastings with featured wineries Goosecross Cellars and Panther Ridge, along with a summery soundtrack by DJ Desire. VIP guests were invited to a rooftop wine tasting with Clos du Val, featuring recent sold-out releases paired with the museum’s famous unobstructed view of the mountains.

Attendees then moved to the dazzling Sturm Grand Pavilion for a sunset-hued dinner program. The hallmark of the evening was a three-course meal with thoughtful wine pairings selected by Molly’s Spirits and Goosecross Cellars. Director Christoph Heinrich highlighted the far-reaching impact of the Learning & Engagement team in his remarks, and the program even included a brief performance by Foxy & Shmoxy, beloved “art detectives” and Denver Art Museum regulars. A “glass raise” capped off the program, meeting a match by the Terri and Linda Stevinson Fund for Excellence to propel the next chapter of in-community work forward. 

To round out the evening, Kiltro performed crowd favorites just a week ahead of their national tour, while attendees enjoyed desserts, after-dinner drinks, dancing, and even a few creative art projects at the cocktail tables. A Denver Nuggets win around the same time made for a night to remember. Uncorked was presented by Sarah Anschutz, UMB and Molly’s Spirits. Grand Cru Sponsors included The Berger Collection Educational Trust, Lisë Gander and Andy Main, Nancy Leprino, Becky and Brian Schaub, Singer Family Foundation, and Spyder Construction. The Denver Art Museum would like to thank all involved for their support in launching this innovative program to engage art-lovers of all ages and build bridges back to the museum.