Western Colorado University Hurst Hall Renovation - Public Art Commission

Western Colorado University is seeking commissioned artwork for a large wall located just inside the entrance on the north side of the ground floor of Hurst Hall. This area is where students gather to wait for classes and is across from a student study area. The wall is 9'4" in height and 20'4" in length, with the main focus for artwork being the area currently occupied by a map and bulletin board, approximately half of the total wall area. Artwork may occupy more of the wall space and extend further down the hallway. Media of all types will be considered, but must be mounted to or on the wall and meet ADA requirements if applicable.

The committee is looking for non-objective artwork that relates to the Natural and Environmental Science programs housed in Hurst Hall. A consideration of the existing public artwork in the building, "Wingscape" by David Griggs and Scott Parsons, would be appreciated. The selection committee will evaluate submissions based on artistic excellence, scale, material, form and content, safety of materials, appropriate relationship to the function of the site, resistance to wear and vandalism, and ease of maintenance. The budget for this project is up to $19,000, which covers all costs including artist fee, insurance, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and any other project-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 system. All applicants must be Colorado residents; exceptions may be made for artists affiliated with tribes with ties to Colorado lands. Semifinalists will be invited to prepare and present a final proposal in person and will receive a $1,000 stipend. The selection committee will meet in June 2025 to select semifinalists, with artist presentations scheduled for July 2025.