Once a year art, wine and philanthropy come together in Aspen, Colorado for one of the most unforgettable cultural events on the calendar. Art Crush, a three day gathering of artists, celebrities, art collectors, galley owners and philanthropists, is a key element in enabling the Aspen Art Museum to fulfill its mission.  Created to be, as stated on the Aspen Art Museum’s website, “a noncollecting art institution presenting the newest, most important evolutions in international contemporary art,” The AAM focuses on temporary exhibits of new and relevant artists, education, public programs and activities to encourage life-changing encounters for all with art.

ArtCrush gathers likeminded individuals together for three days to exchange artistic ideas and discuss new artistic influences in the world today. ArtCrush also serves as a rare opportunity to collect incredible pieces of art, support artists from the world over, to acknowledge artists who are truly pushing the boundaries of their mediums and to support AAM in its long-term goals. This year’s will take place on August 1^st-3^rd.

Per tradition, the WineCrush hosted by John and Amy Phelan will allow a limited number of guests the opportunity to gather together Wednesday, August 1^st at 6 p.m. to discuss the artists and exhibits of 2011 and early 2012, while enjoying wine from AAM partners, Francis Ford Coppola Winery. Francis Ford Coppola, proud owner and producer of his wines, has excellent taste in both wine and art. His company has been a strong supporter of AAM, and a tremendous advocate for the role of the arts in society.

Thursday night, a preview cocktail party, the PreviewCrush at the Baldwin Gallery will allow those interested in the live auction pieces an opportunity to view them while enjoying cocktails and great conversation. At 6 p.m. this open to the public reception is a great opportunity for members of the community to connect with the artists while making bidding decisions for the live auction the following day.

Finally, Friday, August 3^rd the ArtCrush will get underway at the Aspen Art Museum. The ArtCrush includes a sit-down dinner and wine tasting for 350 guests, as well as a silent and live auction. In addition to the fine food, wine and art, the presentation of the AAM’s Aspen Award for Art 2012 to artist Tom Sachs will be a special highlight. Sachs is best known for his reimagining of cultural icons and name brands in unique settings. Featured by the AAM in 2009, Sachs is also displayed in museums throughout Europe, New York and California. His work and artistic perspective will this remarkable Aspen event, even more unforgettable.

The ArtCrush is the perfect marriage or art, wine and philanthropy. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one aspect of the incredible art scene in Aspen and Snowmass Village.

Once you have bid upon, and won your own iconic art, select the perfect home in which to house this masterpiece. Click here to see homes, condos and residences in Aspen and Snowmass Village waiting for fantastic new art, and new owners today!