Events

Bicycle art rides into Denver International Airport

Even as the third annual US Pro Challenge takes off from Aspen today, a bicycle-art show is taking off a Denver International Airport. Using bicycles, artists have created representation of all the cities involved in the US Pro Challenge: Aspen/Snowmass, Breckenridge, Steamboat Springs, Beaver Creek, Vail, Loveland, Fort Collins and Denver, where the race will end.

See also: - Best Public Art at DIA: "Mustang," by Luis Jiménez - The USA Pro Cycling Challenge ushers in second year of bike art installation - The USA Pro Cycling Challenge gets artsy at Plus Gallery

The show was curated by Ivar Zeile of Plus Gallery, who also created displays to go with the two previous races. "Every year we try to tap into different artists," he says. "Since this is the third year we've been doing this, by now we've seen the extent of the amazing art and the artists. This year's work has been outstanding. Two prizes are given each year, and because of the amazing work each artist has done, it will be very competitive. This year the artists were challenged to create a bike that represents each of the cities that the Pro Challenge goes through. There is a lot of symbolism with the art this year."

According to Laura Coale, director of media relations for DIA, the show is much more than a promotional vehicle for the race -- it also promotes local artists. "The installation features only Colorado artists," she says. "Because DIA is an international facility, it increases the chance of notoriety for the artist from people all over the state, country and world."

The art also gives travelers a feel for Colorado itself. "When people fly into DIA, we are providing them with the experience of Denver and the Rocky Mountain region," Coale continues. "It is important for us to reflect the events happening. It is important for us to convey a sense of place for those who pass through the airport."

Seer the installation on the fifth level of the Jeppesen Terminal, above the baggage-claim carousels. It will remain up through August 25.


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Noah Reynolds

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