The Arts & Beautification Committee is seeking volunteers. Several members have moved away, and we need new volunteers to help continue our work. The committee supports public art in Upper Downtown and advocates for more tree canopy, along with the care and maintenance of trees and flowers within the UpDoNA footprint. Recent projects include a mural along the Cherry Creek Path, a Sister Cities sign permanently displayed at Glenarm Plaza, and the redevelopment of Welton Park at Welton and Broadway.
Strategic Plan. Here are some excerpts from our Strategic Plan regarding our Vision, our Mission, and our Guiding Principles.
Vision: To reimagine Upper Downtown as a vibrant tapestry of artistic expression and natural beauty, fostering creativity and inclusivity, cultural connection, a sense of community, and civic pride.
Mission: Through art installations, beautification projects, and collaborative efforts, we aim to create a space where residents and visitors alike feel a sense of belonging and connection, contributing to the overall livability of our community. To this end we will commission, curate, and manage publicly accessible arts (visual and performance), and support landscaping projects in Upper Downtown Denver. UpDoNA-supported projects must reflect the diverse perspectives of Upper Downtown Denver’s residents and visitors, enhance the urban environment and enrich the experience of living in, working in, and visiting Upper Downtown.
Guiding Principles:
- Artistic excellence: Prioritize high-quality artworks and performance events that push boundaries and spark dialogue.
- Aesthetics: Support landscaping projects that are aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly.
- Community engagement: Involve artists, residents, and stakeholders in the selection, creation, implementation, and activation of UpDoNA-sponsored projects.
- Accessibility and inclusivity: Strive to make publicly available artworks and landscaping projects as accessible as possible regardless of one’s age, ability, or cultural background.
- Sustainability: Consider long-term maintenance and environmental impact when selecting and installing artworks and landscaping projects.
Near-Term Future Projects: Over the next 12 months, we will focus on (1) creating an interactive art map for Upper Downtown, (2) offering self-guided and guided art tours within Upper Downtown, (3) enhancing Welton Park, (4) raising funds to commission additional works, and (5) building partnerships with local businesses and artists to further our mission.
How to Volunteer: If you are interested in joining us, please email saltripodi@updona.org. In your email, please indicate whether you would like to serve on the standing committee, which meets monthly and stewards our projects, or the ad hoc committee, which is contacted occasionally for help with specific projects or assignments but is not regularly involved in committee business.
We look forward to working with new volunteers.
