City of Westminster - Three-Dimensional Totem Pole(s) or Vertical Three-Dimensional Artworks

The City of Westminster is seeking three-dimensional totem pole(s) or vertical artworks for installation in Kensington Park. These artwork(s) will replace three carved totem-like pole art features which have been deaccessioned due to deterioration. Submitted artwork(s) can be from an existing portfolio or a proposal for new design and fabrication by an artist or team of artists.

The goal of this project is to provide an opportunity for the community to learn more about the artistic talents of indigenous peoples of North America and to honor and celebrate the indigenous peoples native to Colorado—including the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho Nations. While this is an open call, the City of Westminster encourages submissions from indigenous artists of North America, particularly peoples native to Colorado. Design options are open, but designs with traditional indigenous elements will only be accepted from indigenous artists.

Artwork(s) will be installed in Kensington Park, a neighborhood park located north of Standley Lake. The installation area is 25 feet wide by 15 feet deep, and artwork(s) should fully encompass this area. Artwork(s) may range from 4 feet to 12 feet in height and must be constructed of sustainable products such as wood, metal, or concrete. All elements must have a metal base for connection to the installation pad and must be able to withstand the elements with little to no annual maintenance. The artist will be responsible for providing engineered drawings and a long-term maintenance plan with cost estimate. The artwork(s) will be bolted or welded to a concrete pad provided by the city.

Submission options include existing portfolio pieces or new design concepts. For existing work submissions, provide a minimum of three photos, a link to an online portfolio, a written description of the story and purpose, artist biography, and installation information. For new design concept submissions, provide links to existing work, a written description of the proposal with story and purpose, a simple sketch, artist biography, and installation information. Three artists or teams will be invited to move forward; those submitting concept proposals will receive a $1,000 stipend for design development.

The project budget is $60,000, which covers all costs including fabrication, transportation, and installation. Entry deadline is August 3, 2025. Finalists will be notified August 25, 2025, with final selection in late September/early October. Installation is TBD based on availability and fabrication/installation needs. Applicants must be experienced artists aged 18 years or older and submit applications through Café including a professional resume/CV (limit 3 pages), link to online portfolio, letter of interest (approximately 1,000 words), 3-12 portfolio images with annotated list, and contact information for three professional references.