UAF Mission Statement
The Denver Urban Arts Fund (UAF) is an offshoot of the Graffiti Summit of 2006 and the subsequent Graffiti Task Force recommendations of 2007. The Graffiti Task Force Prevention Subcommittee identified a need for programs and initiatives to “reduce the likelihood of graffiti offenses and outline roles and responsibilities for stakeholders to prevent graffiti vandalism.”
The Prevention Subcommittee recommended programs that would “create and increase access to alternatives for youth, including positive arts opportunities.” The intent and rationale behind this mandate was to increase youth access and exposure to “positive and monitored alternatives and support systems. Positive use of recreational and leisure time is an important skill to learn. Self-expression, whether developed through sports, writing, drawing, theatre, music, is largely valued in Denver.”
In accordance with these recommendations, Arts & Venues Denver (AVD) has developed an Urban Arts Fund (UAF) to become a sustained program for future generations. The purpose of the Denver Urban Arts Fund is to prevent graffiti vandalism by creating positive, well-tended and active community gathering spaces, and by generating opportunities for young people to participate in diversionary art and leadership programs. The policies and application procedures are described below.
2012 UAF GOALS
In 2012, Urban Art Funding (UAF) will be targeted towards TWO goals: Graffiti Prevention Programs and Mural Projects (in graffiti hotspots). We have awarded 12 applications for Graffiti Prevention Programs for 2012.
If you are seeking funding for mural projects, please return to the UAF website on April 16 and www.denvergov.org/UrbanArts and download UAF Mural Project Application 2012 or email: Mary.Valdez@denvergov.org). Funding for Murals will range between $250-$2,000.
If you have questions in the meantime, you can email mary.valdez@denvergov.org or call 720-865-4313.