The Denver Art Museum (DAM) will mark its 41st Collectors’ Choice event the evening of Thursday, November 30, 2023. This elegant and festive fundraising gala draws museum patrons, collectors, artists and civic leaders together in an annual celebration of cultural and community impact.

This year’s philanthropic bash will celebrate the transformational support of the Avenir Foundation and Joy and Chris Dinsdale during a dazzling evening of cocktails, dinner and entertainment.

“Textiles have been a global thread that connects cultures and expresses traditions throughout the ages, and are represented across the museum’s collections,” said Christoph Heinrich, Frederick and Jan Mayer Director of the Denver Art Museum. “The Avenir Foundation and the Dinsdales have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the Denver Art Museum’s textile and fashion collections, exhibitions, and programs for the last decade, and we look forward to celebrating their contributions, ideas and hard work to make these collections and programs even more accessible to our communities. This year, we also look forward to celebrating the life and creative accomplishments of our friend Jim Howard, a legendary fashion illustrator and member of Denver’s creative scene.”

Textiles have been collected in all departments throughout the museum’s history. The Avenir Institute of Textile Art and Fashion was established in 2021, expanding the original department. Comprised of more than 5,000 objects today, this global collection ranges from archaeological textiles to contemporary fashion and is increasingly reflective of the diversity and dynamism of the medium. Behind the scenes, a commitment to textile conservation ensures the highest level of care and preservation. Style, influence and expression add dimensions to the collection, demonstrating the enduring power and relevance of these works from regalia to couture.

Over a nearly 100-year span, the generosity of collectors and donors has helped establish the DAM as a leader in textile art and fashion. In recent years, the visionary leadership of the Avenir Foundation and the Dinsdales has sparked community reach and experimentation as the department builds a vibrant, world-class program.

To attend this year's Collectors' Choice and support the future of textile arts and fashion at the DAM, please visit www.denverartmuseum.org/collectors-choice for information, ticketing and sponsorship opportunities.