Public Art Grant Program

The Town of Silverthorne, Colorado offers an annual Public Art Grant Program administered by the Silverthorne Art Board. This program is guided by the town's Arts and Culture Strategic Plan and is intended to promote a vibrant, walkable downtown that reflects the area's unique character. The grants support creative initiatives that build community, celebrate shared and diverse traditions, and enhance the aesthetic and cultural environment of Silverthorne. The program contributes to the town’s goal of fostering a strong sense of place, complementing high-quality design, and supporting the local economy through the arts. The grant provides supplemental funding to both artists and businesses seeking to implement public art projects that are accessible to the public. Project types include permanent or temporary installations, both indoors and outdoors, as well as program-based art activities. The program supports initiatives that either enhance physical spaces with creative expression or engage the public through participatory artistic experiences. All projects must be publicly viewable and ideally should contribute to community interaction and artistic enrichment. Silverthorne businesses are eligible to apply for funding to install or enhance publicly visible art, whether through the acquisition of artworks or improvements to commercial spaces. Businesses may also propose interactive art projects that invite public participation and community engagement. In turn, artists can apply to install works independently or in partnership with local businesses, as long as the resulting art is visible to the public. Artistic proposals may go beyond traditional installations, aiming to creatively transform spaces and foster community participation. The total funding pool for the 2026 cycle is $16,000. Applicants may request up to $4,000; however, proposals exceeding that limit may be considered if they offer exceptional community benefit. A 10% match is required, which can be fulfilled through financial or in-kind contributions. The matching requirement ensures shared investment and sustainability of the projects. Preference will be given to projects located within the Silverthorne Creative District or those that highlight local businesses, foster walkability, and encourage exploration of the downtown area. The application period for 2026 opens on Monday, February 9, and closes on Thursday, March 19 at 5:00 PM. Applications will be reviewed by the Art Selection Committee between March 20 and March 27, and award recipients will be announced on April 6. All funded projects must be completed by October 6, 2026, exactly six months after the selection date. Projects not completed within this timeframe are required to return any grant funds received, ensuring accountability and adherence to timelines. The Public Art Grant Program has a history of supporting a range of projects, including murals, mosaics, and interactive community art installations. Past recipients have included both individual artists and collaborative teams, contributing murals to parks, schools, and downtown businesses. The program has consistently prioritized visibility, accessibility, and engagement in its funding choices, reinforcing Silverthorne's commitment to integrating art into everyday life and enhancing its public spaces.