Experiments in Public Art 2025/26

The Office of Arts and Culture presents an ongoing series of temporary public interventions through the Experiments in Public Art program, which serves as a city-wide laboratory expanding the potential of public art. Unlike a traditional public art commission, Experiments in Public Art projects are as much an experiment for the community as they are opportunities for artists to work within unconventional parameters. Participating artists are selected, in part, by incorporating concepts and materials that extend beyond the notion of traditional public art.

The program goals include advancing cultural equity by prioritizing access, inclusion, and representation in the public realm; promoting environmentally sustainable practices; strengthening community cohesion by activating underused spaces; supporting resilience through creative responses to social, environmental, and economic challenges; engaging the community in enriching arts experiences; showcasing local and regional talent; promoting Boulder as a vibrant place; supporting innovative ideas; fostering collaboration between government, creatives, community members, neighborhoods, businesses, and non-profit organizations; creating spaces that promote play and imaginative risk-taking; and honoring community history, heritage, and identity.

Funding is available with a maximum budget of $9,500 per project. Eligible expenses include professional consultant time and labor, permits, insurance, art supplies and materials, equipment rental, landscaping, installation/de-installation/maintenance, and contingency. Applicants must submit 4-6 images, 0-2 audio files, and 0-2 video files (4-10 total samples). The application deadline is September 28, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. Eligibility is limited to local artists in Colorado. Projects will be implemented January through December 2026. Applicants are responsible for any maintenance required during the project's display and must consider de-installation and long-term maintenance plans. Depending on project scope, insurance requirements may include General Liability, Professional Liability, Business Auto Liability, and/or Workers' Compensation coverage.