“Art in public places, that is what makes a city alive.” That is what artist Charlotte Zink must have thought. This is the Figure in Denver, an artwork that embodies Denver’s commitment to public art.
Denver’s Public Art Program started in 1988. Mayor Federico Peña wanted art to be part of city projects. The city council made it official in 1991. Now, 1% of capital improvement projects over $1 million goes to public art.
The Public Art Collection now holds more than 400 pieces. Denver has invested over $40 million in public art since 1988. Over 50 public art projects are in progress. The aim is to allow Denver residents to experience art in public places.
Denver’s public art collection includes various forms of art. You’ll find sculptures, paintings, and murals. There are also multimedia installations. These artworks are managed by Denver Arts & Venues.
The city’s commitment to public art extends beyond downtown. Even Denver International Airport has its own collection. You can see murals, sculptures, and installations there.
Public art is not just about aesthetics. It is also about economic development. Public art attracts visitors and stimulates the local economy.
Denver’s public art includes pieces by local and international artists. These pieces reflect traditional and cutting-edge art forms.
Denver offers public art walking tours for those who want to explore the art scene. These tours take you to must-see pieces around the city.
One example is the 40-foot-tall Blue Bear. It watches over visitors to the Colorado Convention Center. Donald Lipski’s sculpture features a horse on a red chair outside the Denver Public Library. The Denver Performing Arts Complex has 60-foot-tall fiberglass dancers. You are even encouraged to join in with music playing 24/7.
Outside Meow Wolf Denver, you will find the Plethodon, a reptile-like sculpture. Near the Highland Bridge, there is a crimson obelisk-like sculpture. Fernando Botero’s bronze Man and Woman are outside the Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre. Baseball fans can admire Lonnie Hanzon’s archway at Coors Field. The Denver Art Museum showcases a pair of larger-than-life animals and a 16-ton steel sculpture. Three white clouds greet visitors at the Children’s Museum of Denver. Finally, the blue horse with red eyes stands near Denver International Airport.
Denver’s public art collection continues to grow. The city is dedicated to enriching public spaces through art. The Figure is only a small part of the collection, but it is worth a stop.