2017 Uptown Trees

The City of Greeley is creating an art corridor linking the University of Northern Colorado campus to downtown Greeley through the Uptown Tree program. This public art initiative includes a trail of artwork for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists along the Downtown/UNC Art Walk corridor in collaboration with Community Development's 8th Avenue improvements and the Downtown Development Authority.

Eight additional art trees will be installed in May 2017 to complete the series. Previous phases added ten trees in 2014, five in 2015, and seven in 2016. Artists are invited to create original or limited edition sculptural art trees with maximum creativity in design and material selection. Designs may range from literal to surreal, kinetic, musical, or playful. Any form balanced in a tree-like pose around a trunk and rooted in a large planter box meets the program's definition. A budget of up to $10,000 per approved sculpture covers design fees, execution, transportation, and installation.

Artists must design artwork around a steel or aluminum pole (6-inch outside diameter, maximum 20 feet high) provided by the artist. Artwork must be fabricated and securely attached to the pole. All sculptures must be self-contained with no electrical power available. Maximum height is 20 feet, with 10 feet clearance to walk under the lowest part where artwork protrudes beyond the planter, and 17 feet clearance above curb level where artwork protrudes over the street. Artworks must withstand Colorado's extreme weather, including temperature changes, wind, rain, and snow. Artists are encouraged to consult a structural engineer. Sculptures will be reviewed in final form and may be rejected if not built to specifications. Installation dates are May 3 and May 17, 2017, with artist assistance required. Entry deadline: September 9, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. Submit 3-6 images of work samples.