Denver Union Station Interpretive Displays Commission

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) of Denver, Colorado is seeking artists for a commissioned art opportunity at Denver Union Station. RTD is committed to increasing the number of originally commissioned pieces of art throughout its district. The RTD FasTracks Program is a multi-billion dollar comprehensive transit expansion plan to build 122 miles of new commuter rail and light rail, 18 miles of bus rapid transit, 21,000 new parking spaces at rail and bus stations, and enhance bus service across the eight-county district, as well as the redevelopment of Denver Union Station into a multi-modal transportation hub for the metro region.

DUSPA is commissioning a comprehensive interpretive display on the importance of Denver Union Station and its environs. This artwork will include 6-12 interpretive signs/display locations at the site, including the tunnels, the railroad tracks behind the station, and the Delgany Street Sewer location. There are items that have been salvaged from the renovation that may be utilized in one or more of the artwork areas. The budget for this commission is $90,000 USD, inclusive of all costs including design fee, consultation fees, structural engineering, insurance, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and contingency. Selected artwork must be structurally sound with structural engineering approval required. Artwork cannot interfere with pedestrian movement, safety and security. Some elements will be outside and exposed to the elements and must withstand Colorado's constantly changing weather conditions. Materials must be durable and require little or no maintenance.

This is an open competition for professional artists residing in the United States. Teams of artists are welcome to apply. Applicants must submit eight digital images of previously completed artworks, a statement of interest (2000 character maximum), and a one- to two-page current résumé via the CaFÉ online application system. There is no application fee. The application deadline is midnight MDT on Friday, May 6, 2011. Semi-finalists will be chosen and provided an honorarium to prepare and present proposals in person. Installation is scheduled for 2014 in unison with the completion of transit elements at Denver Union Station.