Denver Public Art Opens Applications for 2018 Urban Arts Fund Projects

Denver’s Public Art program, managed by Denver Arts & Venues (A&V), has launched the 2018 Urban Arts Fund (UAF) graffiti prevention program and applications for funding are due March 19 (apply at: www.artsandvenuesdenver.com/public-art/urban-arts-fund?)

The UAF is open to any artist or artist team and A&V encourages emerging artists and those reflective of typically under-represented communities to apply.

“Denver’s UAF mural program has grown rapidly from when it first started 10 years ago. Our first year, we funded nine murals to help deter graffiti in some of Denver’s ‘graffiti hot spots.’ Last year, we funded more than 80 murals,” said Mary Valdez, Denver Public Art Administrator. “The UAF has become an incredible program, drawing attention and talent not only from Denver, but also on a national and international scale.”

Selected applicants will be notified in April and may receive anywhere from $1,000-$8,000. Preference will be given to projects incorporating a strong community and youth engagement component, those in neighborhoods and city council districts with few previous UAF projects, and first-time applicants.

The UAF was initiated in 2009 as a graffiti prevention program providing access to positive, creative experiences for youth and transforming dilapidated areas into well-tended and active community gathering spaces. In 2017, the UAF was expanded to develop programming partnerships that focus on community building and social change, addressing diversity, equity and inclusiveness values. Since its inception, with the help of more than 3,000 youth and 600 community participants, the program has facilitated nearly 250 new murals and has helped protect more than 350,000 square feet from vandalism.

For questions regarding the Urban Arts Fund, please contact Mary Valdez, 720-865-5564, mary.valdez@denvergov.org.

Visit PublicArtDenver.com for more information on Denver Public Art and the Urban Arts Fund.

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