The U.S. General Services Administration is dedicating its first exterior sculpture at the 624-acre Denver Federal Center in Lakewood, Colo., by internationally recognized artist Andrea Zittel on September 15 at 1 p.m. on the corner of Main and Fourth Street. This is the first work of art by Zittel in Colorado.

“GSA is excited to partner with the Department of State to bring Andrea Zittel’s unique artistic installation to the Denver Federal Center as her first work in the area.  GSA’s Art in Architecture Program strives to highlight the works of America’s contemporary artists and Zittel’s work will be an important addition to our national collection.”

The art was commissioned through GSA’s Art in Architecture Program, which allocates one-half of one percent of the budget for new construction or major modernization projects for art.  The budget for this work of art was $649,000. The public can view and interact with the sculpture weekdays from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. More details about visiting the Denver Federal Center are here.

The sculpture consists of eight identical “platform pavilions” that are 12 feet by 16 feet in size. Each pavilion consists of both vertical and horizontal panels, forming an area that evokes an open room, and a wooden surface that suggests a wrap-around deck. Zittel’s group of structures functions as both abstract sculpture as well as a flexible, modular environment that can be used in various ways, including casual social gatherings or places to sit, relax and view the surrounding landscape. The structures make subtle references to architecture, and provide opportunities for both privacy and social engagement.

Andrea Zittel was selected through GSA’s Art In Architecture program. The selection panel was looking for a unique approach to creating social spaces. They wanted an artist who could help activate and engage the campus, its employees and patrons in a new and artistic way. While Zittel is not a local artist, she used local businesses for purchasing materials, such as the concrete, wood, and metal.

Since re-launching in 1972, GSA commissioned 408 artworks through the Art in Architecture Program, 41 of which are displayed in GSA’s Rocky Mountain six-state region.  GSA’s Art in Architecture Program melds the creative work of the finest artists in America with that of the nation’s top architects and construction firms. Together, the art and architecture of federal buildings create a lasting cultural legacy for the people of the United States. The arts continue to play a significant role in shaping our country’s culture and legacy.