Introduction
The Boulder Public Art Program seeks to commission one or two artists to create original artworks for two underpass entrances along the Bear Creek Greenway Trail in Boulder, Colorado. Each site includes two walls for artwork (four walls total). The commission amount is approximately $45,000 USD per location, or $90,000 USD if one artist is selected for both locations. Preference will be given to mosaic artworks and to artists living in Colorado, though all U.S. artists and media will be considered.
Bear Creek Greenway Trail
The Bear Creek Greenway Trail is a popular multi-use path for walking, running, and biking, connecting neighborhoods and open spaces across Boulder. The trail is also part of the 24-mile B360 bike route that circles the city.
Materials & Media
The selection panel seeks bright, whimsical, and uplifting artworks that activate the underpass entrances and reflect the energy of trail users. Artworks may reference the history, geography, or ecology of Bear Creek. Preference will be given to two-dimensional mosaic artworks in glass and/or ceramic tile, though other durable, low-maintenance outdoor materials may be proposed.
Selection Process
From the pool of applicants, a selection panel will choose four finalists. Each finalist will receive a $1,500 honorarium to develop a site-specific proposal for both locations and participate in an interview. One artist may be commissioned for all four walls (total budget $90,000) or two artists may be selected, one for each location (two walls per artist, $45,000 each). Final recommendations will be presented to the Boulder Arts Commission and the City Manager for approval. All decisions of the City of Boulder are final.
Budget
The budget is approximately $45,000 USD per location or $90,000 USD for both locations. This amount is inclusive of all costs: artist fees, materials, fabrication, insurance, travel, installation, site modifications, and documentation. Funding is provided through the City of Boulder’s 1% for Public Art Policy.
Timeline
(Except for online application deadline, dates are subject to adjustments)
- Monday, November 17, 2025; 11:59 p.m. MST — Application deadline via CaFÉ™
- January 2026 — Finalists selected
- April 2026 — Artist(s) selected and notified
Project Selection Panel
In accordance with Boulder’s Public Art Policy, the Bear Creek Greenway Trail public art selection panel includes five voting members and additional non-voting advisors. The panel is responsible for establishing goals, reviewing applicants, selecting finalists, and recommending the commissioned artist(s).
Contact
For questions, please contact:
Boulder Office of Arts + Culture, Public Art Program
publicart@bouldercolorado.gov