call for existing artworks: lena archuleta library

Denver Public Art is seeking to directly purchase multiple existing artworks for the new Lena Archuleta Library in the Westwood neighborhood of Denver. This is a unique opportunity for artists to submit existing artworks for consideration of purchase; all artworks selected will become a part of the City of Denver’s public art collection. The goal of the project is to fill the new library with vibrant artworks that honor the beautiful new space and the community it serves. The panel has provided specific themes and goals they are interested in seeing in the submitted works below; please review this list when submitting your works for consideration. 

A selection panel of community representatives, arts and culture professionals, and civic leaders has been assembled to identify art opportunities and to select artworks for this project. The panel is seeking artists who have existing two-dimensional artwork in mediums suitable for indoor display. Works in a variety of media and forms will be considered. Examples of media include, but are not limited to: textiles, painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, ceramics, or sculpture (under 6 inches deep, that can hang on the wall).   

Artwork Site  

The panel has identified several interior locations within Lena Archuleta Library for potential artworks. Below are the measurements of each space. Please consider these sizes when selecting artworks to submit. 

*Note: Submitted artworks do not have to be exact measurements below. These are the measurements of the spaces available, so anything that fits within these measurements will be considered (even if considerably smaller).  

Wall Area Measurements:   

Large walls:  
Wall 1: 76 x 88 in  
Wall 2: 110 x 48 in  
Wall 3: 86x80 in 
 
Medium Walls:  
Wall 4: 48x64in  
Wall 6: 40x60in 
Wall 7: 34x34in 
 
Small Walls:  
Wall 5: 28x36in  
Wall 8: 24x36in  
Wall 9: 24x16in 

Media & Materials  

The panel is seeking artists who have existing two-dimensional artwork in mediums suitable for indoor display. Works in a variety of media and forms will be considered. Examples of media include, but are not limited to: textiles, painting, drawing, photography, and printmaking ceramics, or sculpture (under 6 inches deep, that can hang on the wall). Durability and ease of maintenance are also important.   

Maintenance, Durability & Accessibility  

The selected artworks will become permanent additions to the Denver Public Art collection. All applicants must consider the issues of long-term conservation and maintenance of public art, along with time and budget. These projects are in the public realm and will be exposed to physical stresses, as well as be subject to potential vandalism. Public art projects should be fabricated of highly durable, low-maintenance materials. The selections will be reviewed by the City of Denver’s Public Art Committee to ensure conformity with city standards of maintenance and durability, as well as Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. All finalists are expected to stay on budget and to complete their work in an approved timeframe.  

Timeline  

(Except for the online application deadline, the timeline is subject to adjustments)  

December 21, 2025: Deadline for entry (via CaFÉ™ system)  

February 2026: Artwork Selection  

Early March 2026: Selected Artist or Artist Teams Notified  

Late March 2026: Artwork delivered to Lena Archuleta Library