About This Piece

RISING TOGETHER is a programmable social space for the National Western Center (NWC) and the surrounding neighborhoods. NWC historically held stock shows for the booming cattle industry that thrived off the central location of Denver. The project takes the iconic architecture of The West and elevates the community aspect of it—the barn raising, where people contribute their strength for a common good. RISING TOGETHER is a dedicated space for local people to come together for new and creative activities like poetry readings, classes, music, dancing, and anything else that the community desires.
This participatory installation has four cantilevered walls illustrating a barn raising in action. The open walls allow for free flow of pedestrian traffic while the hanging seats provide multiple seating options. The painted roof is a collaboration between artist Matthew Mazzotta and local mural artist Bimmer Torres, celebrating the aesthetics and traditions of the community. It is a landmark, shade structure, and multi-use venue. The programmed events are a collaboration between the NWC and local community leaders.