National Western Center South Platte River Bridges Public Art Project

The City of Denver's Public Art Program seeks to commission an artist or artist team to create original works of art for two South Platte River Bridges connecting the new National Western Center campus and Elyria Swansea neighborhoods with the Globeville neighborhood. The public art budget is $1.5 million USD for both bridges. The art selection panel may commission one or more artists for this project. Eligibility is open to local, national, and international artists.

Two new bridges will cross the South Platte River at Bettie Cram Drive and 51st Avenue, enhancing gateway approaches to the site. Two-dimensional, three-dimensional, lighting designs, and architecturally integrated works are options for art integration. Works that demonstrate an authentic connection between human activity and the land, and tell the story of the place—historically, agriculturally, socially and ecologically—are encouraged, as are projects that include direct community involvement. Important themes include: Community/Ethnic History of the GES Neighborhoods/Social impact/Culture/Reflects Past, Present, and Future; Connection/Gateways/Access/Porous Borders/Arrival Experience/Inviting/Crossroads of Rural and Urban; The Natural World/The River/The Land/The Sky; and A Local, Regional, National and Global Campus. The art selection panel is particularly interested in artists who can demonstrate a deep understanding of the area's history, landscape, and surrounding neighborhoods. Artists will be expected to engage with the surrounding communities in the GES neighborhoods to help inform the art design process.

All applicants must consider long-term conservation and maintenance of public art, along with time and budget. Artworks should be fabricated of highly durable, low-maintenance materials suitable for permanent outdoor display and exposure to weather, physical stresses, and potential vandalism. Artist proposals will be reviewed by the City of Denver's Public Art Committee to ensure conformity with city standards of maintenance and durability, as well as ADA standards. Work sample requirements: 6-8 images and 0-2 videos (6-8 total samples).