DENVER — The highlight of my trip to Colorado was the little-known Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art, which celebrates the life of Colorado artist Vance Kirkland (1904-81). Housed in Kirkland’s studio, the museum includes his work as well as paintings by other Colorado artists and an astonishing collection of decorative art.

When I visited I was surprised to meet Hugh Grant, the curator and director, who walks around this small, uncrowded museum talking with people. Grant explained that over 80 percent of the collection was acquired after Kirkland’s death. I asked him who collected everything, and he shyly told me that he did.  Adults $7, seniors, teachers, students with ID $6. Children under age 13 are not admitted.1311 Pearl St. 303-832-8576, www.kirklandmuseum.org 

ANDI MULLIN, Roslindale