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Museum of Authenticity: Salida's Artistic Gem

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Discover authentic art and culture in Salida's historic district at the Museum of Authenticity. Inspiring creative journeys since 2020.

The Museum of Authenticity in Salida, Colorado, is an intimate art museum showcasing curated collections that inspire bold adventures in art and life. Housed in a late-19th-century building, the museum features a blend of contemporary and historical works, including pieces by local Colorado and New Mexico artists, as well as folk art and utilitarian objects from Greece.

A brief summary to Museum of Authenticity

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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Museum of Authenticity.

  • Check the museum's website or call ahead for current hours, as they can vary.
  • Explore the museum's gardens for a peaceful retreat.
  • Visit the museum shop for unique art and literary gifts.
  • Attend a reading, lecture, or workshop to deepen your understanding of the exhibits.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Museum of Authenticity is located at 124 E 2nd St in downtown Salida. From the intersection of F Street and 2nd Street, walk east on 2nd Street for two blocks. The museum will be on your right. The walk should take approximately 5-10 minutes. There is free two-hour parking available in Salida's Historic Downtown District. A temporary public parking lot is available at the corner of First and D Streets. Additional parking is available between 1st and 2nd Street, west of G Street.

  • Public Transport

    Mountain Valley Transit (formerly Chaffee Shuttle) provides public transportation in Salida. Check their website for routes and schedules. The shuttle operates Monday through Friday from 8 am to 3 pm. Although the service is free, donations are appreciated. The bus from Denver to Salida costs around $35.

Discover more about Museum of Authenticity

The Museum of Authenticity, nestled in Salida's historic downtown, offers visitors a unique and inspiring artistic experience. Founded in 2020 by Thordis Niela Simonsen, the museum is housed in a beautifully remodeled late-19th-century building. Simonsen, an artist, writer, and builder, created the museum to display her diverse collections and inspire visitors to embark on their own creative journeys.The museum's exhibits juxtapose Simonsen's works on paper with early to mid-20th-century pieces by Colorado and New Mexico artists. The collections include lithographs, paintings and photographs. A dedicated Greek Room features folk paintings, ceramics, textiles, and handmade utilitarian objects collected by Simonsen during her time in Greece.The Museum of Authenticity hosts various programs related to its exhibits, including readings, lectures, and workshops. The museum also has a shop where visitors can purchase Simonsen's books, original art, reproductions, and notecards. The gardens surrounding the museum provide a colorful oasis for visitors to enjoy. The Museum of Authenticity seeks to inspire the visitor's own bold adventures in art and life.

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