Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado

The Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado is seeking qualifications from artists interested in creating an exterior public artwork for the cemetery in Grand Junction, Colorado. The cemetery, located on approximately 22.5 acres, was authorized by the Colorado Legislature in 1999 and officially opened on September 5, 2002. It currently has 6,662 interment spaces including 3,957 spaces for casketed burials, 1,736 spaces for cremation burial, 1,869 columbarium wall niches, and 775 memorial garden plots.

The Art Selection Committee is looking for an artwork that creates a peaceful and contemplative environment by incorporating the sounds of an electronic carillon. The committee seeks artistic visualizations of electronic carillons, such as sculptural interpretations of historic carillons, bells, or works addressing the historic usage of carillons and their connection to the military. Works that celebrate or articulate an appreciation for military service would also be successful. The targeted site for the visual component is the existing Committal Service Shelter, centrally located within the cemetery complex. The selection committee will consider thematic appropriateness, artistic excellence, compatibility with the electronic carillon system, resistance to wear and vandalism, and ease of maintenance. Artists from the Western Slope and artists who are veterans or military service members are encouraged to apply.

The project budget is $14,000, covering all costs including artist design fee, structural engineering, insurance, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and related expenses. Applicants must submit 6-8 digital images of previously completed artworks, a current résumé, and a statement of interest of 250 words or less via the CaFÉ online platform. A short list of semifinalists will be invited to prepare and present a final proposal in person and will receive an honorarium of $1,000. All works of art commissioned are owned by the State of Colorado via the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. For more information, contact Ruth Bruno, Public Art Program Manager, at 303-892-3813 or [email protected].