Hiawatha Davis Recreation Center Public Art Opportunity!

Overview

Denver Arts and Venues seeks to commission an artist or artist team to create a permanent public artwork in Northeast Park Hill, Denver, Colorado. The project seeks artwork that reflects and celebrates Northeast Park Hill's unique character and the people, histories, cultures, and experiences that have shaped the neighborhood across generations. The selected artwork should contribute to a meaningful sense of place and should come from an understanding of the community rather than impose an outside narrative on it.

Theme and Vision

The project prioritizes community relevance, placemaking, cultural identity, legacy, preservation, and the reclamation and visibility of neighborhood history. Artists are encouraged to consider how public art can tell a meaningful story of the people of Northeast Park Hill, acknowledging the past, reflecting on current lived experiences, and thoughtfully considering the future without erasing or disconnecting from the neighborhood’s existing identity. The selection panel is interested in artists who may be interested in committing to community engagement, demonstrating experience in listening to, collaborating with, and creating alongside the community.

Goals and Visioning

• Reflect the unique cultural characteristics and identity of Northeast Park Hill while recognizing the neighborhood’s history and diversity.
• Explore themes of preservation, reclamation, belonging, memory, and place.
• Create opportunities for residents and visitors to interact with the artwork.
• Tell a meaningful story or message that resonates with the community.
• Celebrate community legacy, fortitude, and pride.
• Reflect both historical and contemporary community experiences.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to artists nationally. Eligible applicant type: Artist.

Media and Materials

The selection panel is open to all media, materials, and formats that are suitable for inside or outside display. This artwork will become a permanent addition to the Denver Public Art collection. All applicants must consider the issues of long-term conservation and maintenance of public art, along with time and budget. These projects are in the public realm and will be exposed to physical stress as well as being subject to vandalism.