Verbena Park Public Art Commission

Denver Public Art seeks to commission an artist or artist team to create original public artwork(s) for Verbena Park in the East Colfax neighborhood of Denver. The goal is to commission artwork that enhances the park, celebrates the neighborhood's rich, international history, and invites visitors to gather and relax in the outdoor environment. The commission amount is approximately $54,500.00 USD, open to artists or artist teams residing in the United States.

The selection panel is seeking artists who work in mediums suitable for outdoor display, including mosaics, reliefs, sculptures, and other durable materials. Artworks should reflect positivity and the park's family-friendly culture as a gathering space, while speaking to the neighborhood's international heritage and critical conversations regarding equity, access, and inclusion. Artists are encouraged to consider experiential, interactive, or functional elements, particularly shade and seating. The panel welcomes collaborative applicants open to working with community stakeholders, the selection panel, and city staff.

Verbena Park is bounded by 11th Avenue, Valentia Street, 12th Avenue, and Verbena Street in the East Colfax neighborhood, east of downtown Denver. The neighborhood is home to diverse communities including Hispanic & Latin/x, Burmese, Thai, and Ethiopian peoples, with 25% of residents being foreign-born. Potential artwork sites are near the playground or along the surrounding walking path. Selected finalists will have a site visit opportunity and meet with the art selection panel and public art staff. All artwork must meet durability, maintenance, and ADA accessibility standards and will become a permanent addition to the Denver Public Art collection. The budget of $54,500.00 USD is inclusive of all project costs including design, consultation, materials, fabrication, installation, and prevailing wage requirements. Deadline: Monday, May 12, 2025, 11:59 p.m. MST. Contact: Lauren Hegge, [email protected], 720-505-0494.