Red Rocks Public Art Project

The City of Denver's Public Art Program and the Red Rocks Art Selection Panel is seeking artists to create permanent or semi-permanent artwork for the Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Park. The ultimate vision is to incorporate artwork into transitional areas of the park, integrating natural and man-made areas while enhancing the visitor experience without detracting from the natural landscape.

Red Rocks is a geologically formed, open-air amphitheatre featuring two 300-foot sandstone monoliths, Ship Rock and Creation Rock, at 6,450 feet above sea level. The 738-acre park is a unique transitional zone where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountains. Artwork will be located in transitional areas adjacent to man-made structures or pathways, or in wholly man-made areas that do not impede access. No artwork will be placed in natural open spaces, inside buildings, or attached to building exteriors. The selection panel seeks unique, one-of-a-kind artwork appropriate for the diverse community that uses the park for recreational and concert-going activities. Artwork should respect the natural scenery, speak to the history and geology of the site, and provide a sense of excitement and discovery. The panel is open to all media and materials, though durability and safety are major factors for outdoor placement. Artists should demonstrate experience integrating artwork into the built environment in permanent or semi-permanent ways.

Applicants must submit six 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 five semifinalists to create proposals and will receive a $1,000 honorarium to prepare and present proposals in person. The selected artist or team will receive a $65,000 USD commission budget, inclusive of all costs including design, consultation, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and documentation. This project is open to Colorado residents only, regardless of background or experience level. Emerging artists are encouraged to apply. The entry deadline is Thursday, April 27 at 11:59 p.m. MST. Semifinalists will be selected in May, finalists in July, and finalists notified in August.