Request for Qualifications - Auraria Library Public Art

This is a Request for Qualifications for public art at the Auraria Library renovation project, slated for completion in December 2016. The Auraria Campus is shared by three institutions: the Community College of Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and the University of Colorado Denver, serving nearly 44,000 students with an additional 4,000 to 5,000 faculty and staff.

The renovation is transforming the library into a flexible, innovative space designed to support teaching, learning, research, creative work, and community engagement. The first floor will feature interactive student engagement and collaboration spaces, while the second floor will provide traditional contemplative study areas. The library's exterior will be maintained, with the addition of a metal sculptural element at the main entrance. Internal courtyards will be updated and outdoor patio space will be added.

The panel is requesting proposals for outdoor artworks, either 3D or sculptural installations in all media, with preference for suspended, multipurpose, and/or interactive works. Areas of opportunity include the exterior of the building and one or more of the library's internal outdoor courtyards. The public art budget is $166,400, covering all costs including artist design fee, structural engineering, insurance, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and project documentation. Selected semi-finalists will be invited to propose artwork and will receive an honorarium of $1,000-$1,500, with travel expenses reimbursed for out-of-state artists.

The Art Selection Committee will evaluate proposals based on artistic excellence, technical competence, suitability to site, conceptual compatibility, scale, material, form, content, structural integrity, accessibility, durability, maintenance requirements, and compliance with public safety codes. Artwork must be sustainable and able to withstand Denver's intense sun, snow, wind, and temperature extremes. All applicants must be legal U.S. residents with skills and experience commensurate with completing a major public art installation. The committee reserves the right to give preference to Colorado residents. Applications are accepted through CaFÉ only and must include six digital images of previously completed artworks (or up to two videos), a resume, a statement of interest (250 words or less), and responses to specified questions. There is no application fee. Contact Ruth Bruno, Public Art Program Manager, at 303-892-3813 or [email protected] for more information.