McNichols Building Public Art Project

The City of Denver Public Art Program is seeking an artist or group of artists for a public art commission at the McNichols Civic Center Building, located at 144 W. Colfax in Denver. The project involves creating artwork for the soon-to-be-renovated entry of the historic building, which will be redesigned as a new community gathering space. Construction begins in August 2015. The selection panel seeks to commission an artist or collaborative team to integrate artwork that connects the exterior/façade with interior activities, including cultural and civic events.

The McNichols Building, constructed in 1909 as a Carnegie Library in Greek Revival style, is located in Denver's Civic Center Park, a National Historic Landmark. The artwork should relate to the building's new use as a cultural venue while respecting its historical significance and speaking to the character of Civic Center Park, the adjacent City and County Building, the State Capitol, and Colfax Avenue. The selection panel is open to artwork in all media and materials and seeks a unique, one-of-a-kind work appropriate for the diverse community that utilizes the building. Artists should demonstrate experience integrating artwork into overall design concepts.

Applicants must submit eight digital images, a résumé, and a statement of interest (no longer than 2,000 characters) via www.callforentry.org. The selection panel will choose up to three semifinalists to consult with the panel and meet with project representatives and the design team. If a formal proposal is requested, the artist will receive an honorarium to prepare and present the proposal 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 the design team to finalize designs for installation. The budget for this commission is approximately $145,000 USD, inclusive of all costs including design fees, consultation, insurance, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and travel. All work on city property is subject to prevailing wage requirements. This project is open nationally to all artists regardless of background or experience level; emerging artists are encouraged to apply. Applicants should consider long-term conservation and maintenance, as public art projects are exposed to weather, physical stresses, and potential vandalism.