Ross-Barnum Library Public Art Commission

The City of Denver's Public Art Program seeks to commission an artist or team of artists to create an original public artwork for the Ross-Barnum Library located at 3570 West 1st Avenue, Denver, CO 80219. The budget for this commission is approximately $20,000.00 USD. Eligibility is open to artists or artist teams residing in the state of Colorado. A 13-member selection panel of community representatives, arts and culture professionals, and civic leaders will select and recommend an artist or artist team for this project.

The selection panel has identified the white façade of the main entry as the preferred location for public art. Artwork in this location could extend the length of the facade and potentially wrap around to the north. Additionally, retaining walls outside of the entry or the underside of the façade could also be activated. The panel is open to two-dimensional and three-dimensional artwork in all media, materials and formats suitable for outdoor display, including mosaic and paint. The panel is invested in artwork that is welcoming, inclusive and outward facing for the larger community, and would like to see artwork that is culturally representative of the diverse neighborhood. While not required, the panel is interested in artwork that could be interactive or artwork that provides opportunities for the community to be included in its creation.

All artwork will become a permanent addition to the Denver Public Art collection and must consider long-term conservation and maintenance. Public art projects should be fabricated of highly durable, low-maintenance materials. The budget of $20,000.00 USD is inclusive of all costs associated with the project including the artist's design fee, consultation fees, insurance, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and any other costs. Prevailing wage requirements will be applied for all work done on City property. Applicants must submit 6-8 images and up to 1 video (6-9 total samples). Entry deadline: July 18, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. Three to five artists/artist teams will be selected as finalists, with notification expected in October/November 2023.