At the convergence of I-25 and Colfax Avenue is Meow Wolf’s newest installation, Convergence Station — finally open after four years in the making. As the creative supergroup’s third outpost, Convergence Station shares the tale of four intertwining galactic worlds through immersive art experiences, and it’s right in the heart of Denver’s Sun Valley neighborhood.
“This exhibition is unlike anything you’ve ever seen … from The Swamp to The Cathedral, there’s a strong narrative to be uncovered should you choose, alongside truly mind-bending art from the many talented creatives that have worked so hard to bring the vision to life,” says Chadney Everett, executive creative director of Meow Wolf Denver.
“This exhibition is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.”
Located at 1338 1st Street, the newly constructed, 90,000-square foot space not only features Meow Wolf’s largest installation to date, but also a 488-person capacity music hall, retail space, gift shop and special cafe called HELLOFOOD, home to local tasty treats and bold brews.
“The theme of Convergence Station as an interplanetary melting pot is inspired by the beautifully diverse melding of cultures of Sun Valley, where we’re located,” explains Brian Loo, senior director of operations development.
Meow Wolf worked with more than 110 Colorado artists and 200 resident artists to bring 79 unique installations to life. Notable collaborating artists working on this project include Kalyn Heffernan, Christopher Nelson, Everything is Terrible!, Molina Speaks, Sofie Birkin, along with Moment Factory and many others.
Visitors first step up to the Quantum Department of Transportation as the gateway to what lies ahead. Differing paths offer clues to hidden rooms and deeper meanings to each of the worlds — C Street, Numina, Eemia and Ossurary. In these habitats, memories serve as both currency and the key to unlocking the story behind the cause of the convergence, available to guests through varying multimedia meant to unlock all the senses.
Notably, many exhibits pay tribute to Denver’s history. An old RTD bus nods to the Mile High’s accessibility movement created by Denver Gang of 19; nearby, an installation honors a local Denver artist who passed in 2018.
Despite the eerie aura, Convergence Station is fit for quantum travelers of all ages. While a few hours in the space can feel like a sensory overload, Meow Wolf made sure to include quiet rooms throughout for people to take a break from the mind-blowing lights and sounds.
The concept of HELLOFOOD was meant for visitors to recharge from their cosmic exploration with quality fuel.
“We started right here in the community, as we wanted our cafe to reflect its rich diversity,” adds Loo. “We called upon local restaurateurs, craft breweries, coffee roasters and bakeries to collaborate on our menu. The results are exponentially tasty, with the vast majority of our offerings made right here in Colorado.”
Meow Wolf’s award-winning first location in Santa Fe, House of Eternal Return, has had over two million visitors to date. In addition to its second location in Las Vegas, Omega Mart, and now third spot in Denver, Meow Wolf is recognized in Fast Company’s 2020 list of The World’s 50 Most Innovative Companies.
Learn more about Convergence Station and how to visit at meowwolf.com/visit/denver.
Photos courtesy of Meow Wolf.
Originally published in the Winter + Spring 2021-22 issue.
