Dia:Beacon Opens in Hudson Valley, Housing Postwar Art Collection

In May 2003, Dia:Beacon was inaugurated by the Dia Foundation for the Arts in Beacon, New York, situated 100 kilometers north of Manhattan. This repurposed factory boasts 800 square meters dedicated to gallery space, showcasing a permanent collection from 23 American artists of the 1960s and 1970s, featuring works like Richard Serra's Torqued Ellipses and Andy Warhol's Shadow Paintings. The project, designed by Robert Irwin and overseen by president Leonard Riggio, took four years to complete. Director Michael Govan and curator Lynne Cooke highlighted the foundation's commitment to enhancing its collection and supporting artistic initiatives. With 7,500 square meters of skylights, Dia:Beacon provides installations illuminated by natural light, opening during a time of war, corruption, and budget cuts, marking a rare moment of celebration.