Public Art: Peace Wall Re-imagined

The Thornton Arts, Sciences and Humanities Council (TASHCO) in collaboration with the City of Thornton is seeking to commission artwork to revitalize and preserve remaining tiles on Thornton's Peace Wall. The project will incorporate existing Peace Wall tiles into 4 new wall-hanging works to be installed in 4 municipal buildings throughout Thornton. The work should honor the history of the Peace Wall while reinterpreting it for current and future residents, pushing Thornton into a contemporary setting.

Thornton's Peace Wall was created in 2003 in response to the September 11th terrorist attacks, providing youth a voice through art. Since its installation, the wall has undergone damage due to Colorado's extreme weather. This 2020 project will commission an artist to remove the current tiles from their original location and re-imagine them into unique works that can be enjoyed by residents in all city wards. Artists should demonstrate knowledge of tile de-installation and preservation, experience creating original works of art, dynamic use of color and composition, interdisciplinary practice with innovative materials, understanding of contemporary art's effect on public space, and knowledge of materials needed for durable public work.

The project budget is $12,000, inclusive of artist fees and all costs associated with materials, fabrication, transportation, shipping, installation, insurance, and maintenance. Submission deadline is May 3, 2020 at 5 p.m. MDT. Applicants must submit 4-10 images of completed work, a written statement or video detailing creative process, and a resume/CV with 2-3 professional references. The review process includes portfolio review, interviews with shortlisted artists (June 22-26), recommendations and final approval by Thornton City Council, award, and design approval before fabrication. Final project deadline is December 31, 2020. This call is open to all artists, design teams, and architectural firms age 18 and over. City of Thornton employees are not eligible. Preference will be given to those with proven history of fabrication and installation of public work and knowledge of ceramics.