About This Piece

"Rising Together" is a programmable social space at the National Western Center (NWC), designed to serve both the NWC and the surrounding neighborhoods. Historically, the NWC hosted stock shows that celebrated Denver’s role in the cattle industry. "Rising Together" reimagines that legacy by transforming the spirit of “The West” into a symbol of collective strength and creativity, echoing the tradition of a community barn raising where people join forces for the common good.

The installation features four cantilevered walls that evoke a barn in the process of being raised. These open walls invite free pedestrian movement, while suspended seating provides flexible gathering spaces.

The roof mural, titled "Sacred Threads," is a collaboration between artist Matthew Mazzotta and Denver muralist Bimmer Torres. Bimmer’s design celebrates the color, energy, and cultural heritage of the surrounding community, weaving together imagery that reflects local pride, resilience, and creativity. His mural honors the interconnectedness of people and place, symbolizing the community’s shared history and its ongoing evolution.

Serving as both a landmark and a multi-use shade structure, "Rising Together" is envisioned as a venue for poetry readings, classes, music, dancing, and other creative programs developed in partnership between the NWC and local community leaders.