Denver Performing Arts Complex Public Art Project

The City of Denver Public Art Program and the Denver Performing Arts Complex (DPAC) Art Selection Panel are seeking artists for a public art project on several façades within the DPAC campus. The panel is interested in permanent or semi-permanent light-based artworks that are interactive and create interest and impact at the site.

The site for the artwork is the soon-to-be-built plaza at the intersection of Champa Street and 13th Street. The main area for the artwork will be on building facades that surround the future plaza, including facades on the Commons on Champa Building, Boettcher Concert Hall, Buell Theatre, and Colorado Convention Center. The panel is most interested in light-based or projection artwork, and is also open to 2 and 3-dimensional art elements utilizing a variety of materials. Whether light-based, projection, or alternative medium, the artwork should be conceptually responsive to the site's context and the surrounding facilities' celebration of art, culture, engagement, and performance. Interactivity is an important component. The panel is not interested in stand-alone sculptures.

All applicants must consider maintenance and durability issues, with projects fabricated from highly durable, low-maintenance materials. The project budget is $230,000 USD, inclusive of all costs including design fee, consultation fees, insurance, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and contingency. Prevailing wage requirements will apply for all work on city property. This project is open nationally to all artists regardless of background or experience. Artists with experience integrating artwork onto existing building façades or in interactive light-based artworks are encouraged to apply. Applicants may apply as a single artist or multi-person collaborative group. Submissions should include eight digital images, a résumé, and a statement of interest no longer than 2,000 characters via www.callforentry.org. From these applications, the selection panel will choose between three and five semifinalists who will present their proposals to the Art Selection Panel. Colorado artists will receive $1,500 and out-of-state artists will receive $2,000 to prepare and present proposals in person. Semifinalists will be required to submit a Diversity & Inclusiveness Form. The selected artist or team will collaborate with Public Art Program staff and DPAC staff when finalizing designs for installation.