Public Art: Pollinator Habitats

The Thornton Arts, Sciences and Humanities Council (TASHCO), in collaboration with the city of Thornton, is seeking to commission public art in the form of four pollinator habitats—structures or spaces that provide shelter for a specific pollinator species. These habitats will be installed in pollinator gardens located in each city ward. The selected artist will research, design, build and install species-specific habitats. The city of Thornton's Parks and Open Space Divisions will work with the selected artist to identify native species of plants that support the design of each pollinator habitat. This work is intended to be a semi-permanent addition to the Thornton public art collection and parks environments.

Successful proposals should demonstrate functional value by being well-researched to meet the biological needs of a specific pollinator species, educational value that engages residents on themes such as the importance of pollinators and environmental protection, dynamic use of color and composition, interdisciplinary practice with creative and innovative materials, and a holistic approach to place-making. Artists must demonstrate understanding of the specialized needs and materials for durable, outdoor public art work that can withstand potential vandalism while remaining non-toxic to wildlife. Habitat dimensions must be at least 2' x 2' x 3' and not exceed 4' x 4' x 6'.

This project is open to all artists, design teams, and architectural firms age 18 and over, regardless of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, age, military status, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability. Preference will be given to those with a proven history of fabrication and installation. City of Thornton employees are not eligible. The project budget is $15,000, inclusive of artist fees and all project costs associated with fabrication, transportation, shipping, installation, and insurance. Submissions must include a resume/CV, 4-10 images of work demonstrating ability to create species-specific pollinator habitats with descriptions including materials and dimensions, and a statement of intent outlining interest in the project and ability to collaborate with Thornton Parks. Finalists will be asked to submit final designs, itemized budget, implementation schedule, project narrative, materials list, warranty information, maintenance information, contractor information if applicable, and liability insurance documentation.