SESQUISEMIQUINCENTENNIAL (America 250/Colorado 150)

The City of Aurora, Colorado is seeking a sculpture or art installation to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Colorado and the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. The artwork will be installed at Mission Viejo Park (3999 S Mission Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80013) and will provide a lasting perspective on this significant moment in time. The Sesquisemiquincentennial culminates on July 4, 2026, with events continuing through the end of 2026.

The Art Selection Panel seeks a durable artwork that embraces the past, exists in the present, and looks towards the future. Aurora is home to a large immigrant and refugee population, with over 150 languages spoken in the city. The selected artist or team is encouraged to involve the community through engageaurora.org or by hosting meetings and workshops. The final artwork could incorporate visual elements, design, language, and/or sound to represent the unique character of this diverse community. Resources will be available through the Aurora History Museum and the Office of International and Immigrant Affairs.

The artwork footprint is approximately 15 feet and could potentially be larger if needed, though the western edge is limited by the floodplain of the neighboring creek. Materials must be durable and appropriate for exterior applications in the Front Range climate, with temperatures ranging from sub-zero to over 100 degrees and exposure to snow, hail, wind, and extreme sun. The public art project budget is $250,000.00, including design, project management, overhead, fabrication, transportation, foundation, installation, insurance, and other associated costs. Applicants must submit 5-10 images/videos of relevant work, a professional resume (not to exceed two pages), a statement of interest, and a brief bio. Applicants must be U.S. residents and should have demonstrated experience creating exterior three-dimensional permanent works, working on projects with budgets of $100,000 or greater, and ideally have lived or worked in Colorado or have experiences directly related to Colorado's culture and environment. Finalists will be notified the week of April 30, 2025, with virtual presentations on June 27, 2025. Artwork is to be completed and installed mid-late June 2026.