EXTERIOR SCULPTURE COMMISSION, CONSERVATORY METROPOLITAN DISTRICT, AURORA, CO.

The Conservatory Metropolitan District, in Aurora Colorado is seeking an artist to complete an exterior sculptural commission for this unique residential community located within southeastern Aurora. The name “Conservatory” references the nearby Plains Conservation Center and signifies that wildlife and nature are a focus of this community. Birdwatching, hiking, and bike rides are among the outdoor activities commonly enjoyed by the residents.

SITE

The site for the art is a sloping naturalized open space area that serves as a “center” for the community. Across from Frontier Elementary School, near district signage, and along a walking path and well-travelled roadway, artwork located at this site can serve to define and articulate the values of the Conservatory community.  Electricity is not available at this site. Any lighting would need to use solar power and the cost would be contained within the project budget.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The art selection panel is seeking an exterior sculpture that will serve as a visual depiction of the ideals of the Conservatory related to the natural environment, wildlife and history of this plains region of Colorado and provide visitors and residents with a sense of place. Wind, weather, sun, flora, and fauna are all part of the daily experience.  The panel is interested in something that is evocative of the natural world and is open to representational and abstract aesthetic approaches.  The artwork could be a series, rather than a single element. The artwork should be visible to those driving by and those using the pathway for walking or hiking. The artwork could take the form of a sculptural seating arrangement that could serve as a gathering place. A short path would need to be developed to create access from the walkway.

MATERIALS

Materials must be durable and appropriate for exterior applications within the Front Range climate of Colorado. Annually, temperatures range from sub-zero to more than 100 degrees, and temperatures can span more than 40 degrees within a day, or even a few hours. Snow, hail, wind and extreme sun are all environmental issues to contend with when proposing exterior art projects for this area. Solar powered lighting elements can be used at this site.

BUDGET

$72,000

AURORA, COLORADO

Aurora is Colorado’s third largest city, rich in cultural diversity, and spans three counties in the eastern Denver-Aurora Metropolitan Area. With more than 350,000 residents who enjoy access to quality education, Aurora embraces expansion, while preserving Colorado’s natural beauty. Aurora also hosts top national employers in aerospace and defense, bioscience, healthcare and alternative energy.

Situated on prairie grasslands, rolling hills and the Black Forest’s northern tip, Aurora offers a unique quality of life that blends an old-fashioned sense of community with a range of outdoor and leisure activities. Our residents enjoy a wealth of opportunities and are proud to call Aurora home.

SELECTION PROCESS AND MATERIALS

The Conservatory is a Metropolitan District located within the city of Aurora, Colorado and this project falls within the public art requirements for such developments.  The staff of the city of Aurora’s Public Art Program is facilitating this selection process on behalf of the Conservatory.  All design fee agreements, contracts, and any other agreements will be in the name of and handled by the Conservatory.

All applications must be submitted through the CaFE system of the Western States Arts Federation. The application process is free. No hard copies will be accepted.  Applications emailed directly to Aurora’s Public Art Program or to the Conservatory will not be reviewed.

This call is open to artists who are legally residing in the USA and who are located in CO and the surrounding states (Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah.)

Submission materials include:

·         8-10 images of relevant past work (images may include up to 2 videos)

·         A resume not to exceed two pages

·         A statement describing why this project is of interest to you, and the skills and background you bring to the table that make you uniquely well suited to meet the parameters of this project as described

·         Names and contact information for three professional references

TIMELINE

July, 7, 2017 (11:59 p.m. mtn. time) – Deadline for submission of completed application materials

                July 31, 2017 – Notification of finalists

                September 18, 2017 – Tentative date of finalist presentations

Summer of 2018 – Desired date for project installation and completion

DISCLAIMER

The Conservatory Metropolitan District and the city of Aurora Art in Public Places Program reserve the right to reject any or all applications, proposals, applicants, or projects, and to modify or terminate the application process or the selection process for any reason and without prior notice. Submission of entry constitutes agreement of conditions set forth.

QUESTIONS

Questions should be directed to Roberta Bloom, City of Aurora Public Art Coordinator at publicart@auroragov.org. 

Application Requirements

Eligibility Criteria