Welcome to Denver Public Art’s quarterly update—a roundup of new installations, works in progress and artist news happening across our city.

Each post in this series is organized by city council district. Not sure which district your neighborhood is in? Use the City of Denver’s interactive map to find out.

 

CREATIVITY AFOOT IN COOK/GARLAND PARK

Thanks to Public Art 1% funding, the Monaco Bridge over Cherry Creek Replacement Project will bring a new artwork to nearby Cook or Garland Park. With artist applications now closed, the selection panel is reviewing submissions for this approximately $207,000 project, seeking interactive artworks that encourage exploration, play, and connection while also educating visitors about Indigenous history, local biodiversity and the many uses of the surrounding parks and paths.

 

ON THE HORIZON – BUCHTEL MULTIMODAL MAGIC

A selection panel for the Buchtel Multimodal Improvements Project is in the works and will kick off in January 2026. This project is set to transform connectivity and bring fresh artistic energy to the corridor.

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THE STORY BEHIND “GRATIS” AND “AEGIS”

“Gratis and Aegis” by Jonathan Stiles is located at the Police Station at University and I-25 and was installed in 2006.

“Aegis,” located outdoors, is designed to remember and celebrate those who paid the ultimate price protecting the innocent. The term Aegis refers to the protection provided by officers. Made of steel and aluminum, the sculpture is a rising arc symbolizing the wing of protection police officers give to the community. There are aluminum discs that spin in the wind. Each disc symbolizes officers who have fallen protecting the innocent. The wind itself is a metaphor for the continuing memory of each, which never dies.

“Gratis,” located indoors, is a hanging sculpture dedicated to officers on duty. This term, while often meaning ‘free,’ in this context refers to public service and dedication. Designed after the actual shield the officer wears, the piece hangs over all who enter, symbolizing the protection the officers offer. It uses the colors of blue police uniforms and the silver of the badge. It is also formed around wood, a nod to the days of the wooden nightstick and walking the beat.​

 

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MORE ARTIST OPPORTUNITIES TO COME IN 2026

In 2026, the Public Art Program will significantly scale up its work—initiating a record number of new projects citywide to stay on track with bond commitments. To that end, keep an eye out for many new RFQ announcements throughout the year. All calls are listed at www.denverpublicart.org/for-artists. Follow us on social media and subscribe to our quarterly Public Art newsletter for updates.