Anderson Ranch transforms from a ski resort to a stronghold of the arts

Anderson Ranch is one of the top destinations in Aspen, Colorado. It is perfectly situated in the mountain slopes for skiing, thus making it a popular skiing spot for tourists. However, more than being a ski resort, Anderson Ranch is known for housing different art media, as well as the artists themselves.

As cited by the Guardian, Anderson Ranch was once a simple sheep farm near Snowmass Village. As a ski resort, it has drawn out dozens of people due to its strategic location. Although, some people may not be aware that Anderson Ranch has also shared quite a long history with the arts.

Dating back 1966, resort developers tried something new to attract more people in Aspen. Specifically, they began to develop the area as a center for culture and the arts. This is why from a usual skiing destination, Anderson Ranch slowly transformed into an art sanctuary that it is today.

Famous artists around the world travel all the way to Aspen to experience the breath-taking art in Anderson Ranch. Some artists visit the place to share their passion, holding art exhibits and workshops. At one hand, some artists tend to pass by to draw inspiration for their work.

The art center's executive director, Nancy Wilhelms, shared some stories on how Anderson Ranch became a refuge to this generation's greatest artists. Popular names in the world of arts such as Carrie Mae Weems, Catherine Opie, Tom Sachs and Theaster Gates found their way to Aspen to practice their art. Gates, who was given an honor for his contribution in the arts in 2014, is a regular visitor of the ranch.

"Theaster Gates is part of the fabric of the ranch," Wilhelms revealed. "When he comes, it's like a golden retriever headed for the ball, but the ball happens to be our kilns." Sachs, the New York-based sculptor behind the foam core recreation of Le Corbusier's Unite d'Habitation, would also frequent the Anderson Ranch to study ceramics. Wilhelms said that the artist would make cups out of clay in the ranch for a tea ceremony.

Interestingly, Anderson Ranch also has history being the primary shooting location of classic movies. According to the Aspen Times, the ranch became the location for MGM's "The Devil's Doorway" back in 1949.

TagsAspen, Anderson Ranch, Colorado, Aspen Colorado, Anderson Ranch art, Anderson Ranch art workshops