As the weather gets warmer in the Denver area, new outdoor sculptures have appeared in Douglas County. These are part of the Art Encounters program, which brings art to public spaces every year. Dozens of sculptures are now displayed in parks, on street corners, and in plazas across five communities: Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Parker, and Roxborough. This program allows people to see art outside of museums.
Artists from Colorado and other places submitted their work. A committee of city staff and local residents chose the sculptures. The artists will display their art in public places for twelve months. The current collection will be visible until next May. The sculptures use different materials and styles. Some artists, like Annette Coleman, use recycled materials. The goal is to encourage people to engage with art, support artists, and strengthen the identity of the towns.
The Douglas County Cultural Council started Art Encounters in 2007. The program receives funding from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District and the Philip S. Miller Trust. This financial support helps pay the artists. Many other cities in Colorado also have similar art programs. These programs help artists earn money for their work.
Sometimes, communities like a sculpture so much that they buy it after the exhibition ends. This has resulted in many sculptures becoming permanent parts of the local landscape. The selection process for the next group of sculptures will begin soon, with a new call for artists expected in early 2026. For now, residents can enjoy the current collection for the next year.