Mosaic Art Pieces - Large Scale Outdoor Concrete Planters 2026

The City of Salida Arts & Culture Department, with the Salida Arts and Culture Advisory Commission (ACAC), invites artists to submit proposals for mosaic artwork on one or more of six, approximately 110 sq ft, large, multi-sided, outdoor concrete planters with integrated seating, along F Street in Salida's Creative Arts District. Designs should celebrate Salida's culture while creating an engaging public art experience that enhances downtown. Mosaic, tile, and glass proposals are welcome. Artists or artist teams will be selected based on artistic excellence, craftsmanship, relevant experience, and the creativity and strength of their proposed concept. 

The City of Salida Arts & Culture Department, with the Salida Arts and Culture Advisory Commission (ACAC), invites artists to submit proposals for mosaic artwork to be installed on one or more of six, approximately 110 sq ft, large multi-sided outdoor concrete planters, with integrated seating, located along F Street, the City's primary downtown corridor and Creative Arts District. The city seeks mosaic, tile, or glass designs that celebrate and reflect Salida's unique culture while enhancing the public's realm. Selected artists or artist-led teams will install their work directly onto the existing planters, creating vibrant, engaging public art that enriches the pedestrian experience. Artists will be selected based on artistic excellence, demonstrated craftsmanship, relevant experience, and the creativity, originality, and strength of their proposed concept.  

Submitted designs must be original works of the artist and in compliance with all existing copyright laws. Due to the public nature, artwork may not contain words, advertising, religious art, sexual, violent or other content unsuitable for all ages and cannot convey political partisanship. 

All submissions will be reviewed by the ACAC, assessing compliance with the requirements, creativity, and overall quality of the work being submitted. The ACAC will consider each submission for its ability to enliven the public area and bring a unique concept to the Creative District. 

Located at an elevation of 7,000 feet in the Upper Arkansas River Valley of south-central Colorado, Salida is known as the "Heart of the Rockies." The community is recognized for its vibrant arts scene, diverse creative enterprises, rich cultural offerings, and abundant outdoor recreation, making it one of Colorado's premier destinations for residents and visitors alike. Since earning designation as a Certified Creative District in 2012, Salida's historic downtown has experienced renewed energy and investment, further strengthening its thriving arts community and creative economy. This unique blend of cultural and recreational amenities provides an engaging, educational, and inspiring experience for people of all ages and backgrounds. 

• Artist/Team Name
• Artist Statement
• Contact Information (phone, email, mailing address, county you reside in)
• Title of Artwork(s)
• Work should be finalized artwork, not conceptual
• Total Concept Images : Min. 1, Max. 4
• Total Work Samples: Min. 2, Max. 4

Submitted designs must be original works of the artist and in compliance with all existing copyright laws. Artists should clearly label images as "Concept" or "Work Sample." Due to the public nature, artwork may not contain words, advertising, religious art, sexual, violent or other content unsuitable for all ages and cannot convey political partisanship. 

The proposed art 1) should be appropriate for the surrounding uses; 2) should be an integral part of the site in materials and scale; 3) should be unique and thoughtfully integrated into the existing environment; 4) must meet or exceed standards for structural integrity and durability; 5) must be weather, vandal, and graffiti resistant; 6) and must meet or exceed standards for public safety. 

The total size of each planter varies and is on average 110 square feet. The City of Salida will provide reasonable care with regard to security and maintenance. It is recommended that artists visit the site prior to submitting an application. 

• Artists, at least 18 years of age, legally residing and authorized to work in the United States
• Individuals or teams who have the background, experience, and reputation for completing such a project.
• Submissions by artist/teams with their primary operations located within the City of Salida will receive preference within a five percent (5%) price difference.
• Submissions by artist/teams with their primary operations located within Chaffee County will receive preference within a three percent (3%) 
  price difference.
• Applicants cannot be a member of the City of Salida Arts & Culture Advisory Commission or an employee of the City of Salida
• The selected artwork may not be duplicated within 200 miles of the site.