Urban Arts Funds

The Urban Arts Fund (UAF) is a graffiti prevention and youth development program that facilitates the creation of new murals in areas throughout the City and County of Denver that are perpetually vandalized. The program provides access to positive, creative experiences for youth and transforms dilapidated areas into well-tended and active community gathering spaces. As of 2016, UAF has facilitated more than 115 new murals, abated over 200,000 square feet of walls from vandalism, and engaged approximately 2,000 youth and 500 community participants in the development and installation of mural projects.

The UAF allocates funds in amounts of $500 - $6,000 to artists or organizations who serve as mentors to youth through the creation of a new mural in private or public space. Eligibility is open to any artist or team of artists working in the U.S. Preference will be given to projects with a well-planned youth development and community engagement component, first-time applicants, and projects in neighborhoods and districts without existing UAF projects. Projects on private property require permission from the property owner. Projects in public space require support from the City Council representative and approval from the appropriate city agency. All projects are selected by the UAF Steering Committee.

Murals along the Cherry Creek Trail (public city property) began in 2014 and will have 1-3 potential projects in 2016. Local and international artists will be considered. Approved projects will have additional requirements including a community engagement component. Award notification is expected in mid-April. Applicants must solicit and receive support from their City Council member as a sponsor. UAF awardees must document their project through photographs and/or video, interviews with participants, and submit a final report upon completion. Awardees may also be required to present their project at a public event celebrating the year's projects. For questions or site-specific recommendations, contact Mary Valdez at 720-865-4313 or [email protected].