DEN Arts Rotating Sculpture Program - Summer 2026

Through a competitive selection process artists will loan DEN an existing large-scale sculpture or installation to be temporarily displayed. The sculpture/installation should seek to create a sense of place, elevate the customer experience and create a memorable impression of Denver and the region for travelers and staff.

The mission of DEN Arts is to engage, entertain and educate the public through permanent public artworks, rotating exhibitions and pop-up displays. The Rotating Sculpture Program strives to be a public art incubator for artists in varying stages of their career to gain experience with the complexities of installing and displaying art in a public setting. Through the Rotating Sculpture Program DEN will act as a platform for artists to transition from exhibition and gallery opportunities to securing Public Art commissions.

OVERVIEW

Through a competitive selection process artists will loan DEN an existing large-scale sculpture or installation to be temporarily displayed. The sculpture/installation should seek to create a sense of place, elevate the customer experience and create a memorable impression of Denver and the region for travelers and staff.

PROGRAM MISSION

The mission of DEN Arts is to engage, entertain and educate the public through permanent public artworks, rotating exhibitions and pop-up displays. The Rotating Sculpture Program strives to be a public art incubator for artists in varying stages of their career to gain experience with the complexities of installing and displaying art in a public setting. Through the Rotating Sculpture Program DEN will act as a platform for artists to transition from exhibition and gallery opportunities to securing Public Art commissions.

PROGRAM GOALS

• Transform DEN’s campus with contemporary displays in innovative sites
• Create a memorable first impression and sense of place for travelers
• Act as a beacon and aid in wayfinding of DEN’s campus
• Elevate the customer experience, a principle of Vision 100, by offering surprise and delight moments through noteworthy art installations
• Speak to the audiences of our local community, passengers and aviation partners through creative placemaking and storytelling

TIMELINE – 2026

• April 19, 2026 11:59pm – Application closes
• April 20 – 30, 2026 – Jurying
• May 2026 – Selected artist/team announced
• June 2026 – Installation will occur over an agreed upon day between June 10 and June 18
• Early December 2026 – Artwork removed

MAINTENANCE AND DURABILITY

Artwork must be relatively maintenance free and able to withstand the fast-paced and high traffic environment of the airport. Artwork shall be constructed from sound materials with public safety in mind.

APPLYING FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY

In response to the RFP, applicants must submit the following items via DEN Art Opportunities Application:

1.      Statement of interest no longer than 1000 characters

2.      Portfolio of past projects and/or Website

3.      Artwork Submission including description (100 words), medium, dimensions, weight and installation and maintenance requirements

4.      Up to 5 digital images of the proposed work to be displayed

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

MATERIALS TO BE SUBMITTED

All application materials must be submitted through CaFE.

• STATEMENT OF INTEREST Please submit a brief statement (350 words) outlining the following:
  • Your interest in Denver International Airport
  • Your artistic approach
  • Your experience exhibiting art in galleries, museums, or public spaces
  • Your experience working with diverse communities and stakeholders
• PORTFOLIO OF PAST PROJECTS AND/OR WEBSITE
  • Applicants may submit a selection of previous works or portfolio as a PDF document uploaded with the application. Alternatively artists may submit a link to their website.
• PROPOSAL NARRATIVE In response to the RFP, applicants must provide a detailed description of the proposed artwork for loan. Narrative to include:
  • Artwork description and concept
  • Dimensions
  • Weight
  • Materials
  • Power and infrastructure needs
  • Installation process and requirements
  • Necessary on-going maintenance while on display
• DIGITAL IMAGES To be considered for this project, the applicant must electronically submit up to 5 digital images of current condition of proposed artwork. Artists who wish to submit kinetic, sound or media works may upload one video file.

INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS

Depending on site and selected artwork, installation may be required during nighttime or off-peak hours. Artists must submit a detailed installation plan inclusive of entrance to site, tools and equipment, power and infrastructure, escorting needs and safety measures to protect the artwork and public during installation. Installation must be complete within two days. Dates and work hours to be coordinated and approved by DEN Arts Team.

Artist or team must provide a short biography, personal photograph and label copy prior to installation. DEN Arts team will provide an introductory poster and labels for the display. 

RISK AND INSURANCE

Under this program, selected artists must provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) in compliance with Part 230 DEN Rules and Regulations: https://cdn.flydenver.com/app/uploads/2023/09/14085121/230_insurance_risk-1.pdf. COIs will be reviewed by DEN Risk Department for compliance.

Artworks will be covered by DEN’s Fine Art Insurance Policy once installed at the designated site and inspected. Artist must provide DEN an inventory list and associated values. Artist must review Conditions Governing Rotating Sculpture Loans To The City And County Of Denver (Loan Agreement).

This program is open to all artists internationally. Applicants may apply as a single artist or multi-person collaborative group. Awarded applicants are required to conduct a site visit with the DEN Arts Team and are responsible for overseeing the installation and removal of their artwork. Artists residing within the state of Colorado are strongly encouraged to apply.