Denver Botanic Gardens Public Art Commission

The Denver Office of Cultural Affairs and Denver Botanic Gardens seek to commission an artist or team of artists to create a site-specific art installation that incorporates living plant materials into the design. This permanent artwork will be located in a vertical wall and atrium area of a new parking garage at the Gardens' entrance, serving as the first and last visual experience for visitors. The installation will be the focal point as visitors enter and exit the elevators, pass through to the Children's Garden, and cross to the main Gardens entrance.

The selection panel is open to two-dimensional and/or three-dimensional artwork in all media, materials, and formats, including interactive art, environmental art, and landscape art. The artwork must incorporate planted materials consistent with Denver Botanic Gardens' mission. A member of the Gardens' horticulture staff will collaborate with the artist during design, providing guidance on plants suitable for Denver's high-plains, semi-arid environment. The installation must have four-season interest, be durable and sustainable, and withstand significant foot traffic and public interaction.

Approximately $140,000 USD is available for this commission, inclusive of all expenses including design fees, consultation, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and contingency. Applicants must submit eight digital images, a résumé, an artist's statement of no longer than 500 words, and answer short questions via www.callforentry.org. Semi-finalists will be selected for interviews; if a formal proposal is requested, artists will receive an honorarium to prepare and present the proposal in person. The project must be completed by spring 2009 for the garage opening. A pre-submission meeting will be held November 12, 1:30-2:30pm at Denver Botanic Gardens' Waring House.