Manitou Springs Beckers Lane Bridge Art Installation

On behalf of the Manitou Springs Urban Renewal Authority, Creative Alliance Manitou Springs (CRANE) is seeking an artist or art team to create a permanent outdoor art installation at the Beckers Lane Bridge (on Beckers Lane between Manitou Avenue and El Paso Boulevard). The goal is to engage residents and visitors with exceptional artwork that activates the streetscape and encourages exploration without obstructing sidewalk use.

There are 7 panels total, all 23" in height, with varying lengths. Artwork depth should extend into the sidewalk no more than 4". The panels are poured concrete forms with measurements ranging from 11' 8" to 14' 8" on the west side and 11' 8" to 14' 8" on the east side. The artwork must be made of durable, permanent media that is safe for permanent installation and requires little maintenance. Artists are encouraged to create an interactive kinetic, sound, or other dynamic experience. Proposals for artwork that connects with the natural setting around the bridge are especially welcome.

Applications must include: artist statement and resume (maximum two pages), images of prior work (1-3 images), letter of interest (maximum two pages) describing interest, suitability, proposed process and timeline, design reasoning, and relevant experience, sketches and description of the proposed bridge project (up to 3 images in .jpg, .pdf, or .png format), three current references with phone and email contact information, and proposed budget. Artists and art teams based in the United States are eligible. The proposed artwork must reflect and enhance the environmental and/or cultural context of the bridge and surrounding neighborhood. Selection will be based on artistic merit, originality, creativity, professional experience with similar projects, demonstrated ability to complete the work within timeline, maintenance requirements, environmental integration, artistic style alignment with community values, and appropriateness of materials, style, scale, and concepts to the site. Entry fee: $5.00. Budget: $25,000-$35,000.