Joseph P. Martínez Park Public Art Commission

The Denver Public Art Program is seeking to commission an artist or artist team to design a public art experience for Joseph P. Martínez Park in Denver, Colorado. The artwork should embody the spirit, bravery and courage of Private Joe Pantillion Martínez, a Medal of Honor recipient who was the first Hispanic American to receive this honor for combat heroism on U.S. soil during World War II. The selection panel has identified the Joe P. Martínez tribute plaza as the prospective location for public art. This 12-acre park is situated in the culturally diverse Villa Park neighborhood in West Denver, alongside Lakewood Gulch.

The selection panel aims to create a gathering space that is inclusive, accessible and engaging, with artwork that can be experienced with multiple senses. The project is not intended to be a direct memorial but rather to draw inspiration from Private Martínez's values and life. Artists are invited to apply, particularly those new to public artwork and those aspiring to transition into sculptural work. Artworks could be created using diverse media including sculpture, paint and mosaic applications. All artwork must be fabricated of highly durable, low-maintenance materials suitable for permanent outdoor display and subject to ADA standards.

Applicants must submit six digital images of past work, a résumé, and a statement of interest (no longer than 2,000 characters) via www.callforentry.org. The selection panel will choose three to five finalists who will create site-specific proposals and participate in interviews. Selected finalists will receive an honorarium for this work. The budget for this commission is approximately $100,000 USD, which includes all costs associated with design, consultation fees, materials, fabrication, transportation, and installation. Entry deadline: October 16, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. Eligibility is open to artists or artist teams residing in Colorado.