Have you noticed new artwork as you’ve ventured out in Douglas County the last few weeks? The celebrated Douglas County Art Encounters outdoor public art program has recently installed 26 pieces by 14 artists in public places throughout Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Parker and Roxborough.

The 2022-2023 sculptures were selected from 57 entries by local and national artists and are showcased in parks and near entrances of recreation centers, shopping centers and libraries in Douglas County.

Whether you’re a public art enthusiast or new to public art, you are encouraged to visit all 26 sculptures and then use the Vote4Art tool to nominate your favorite for a People’s Choice Award by Jan. 31, 2023. Since the program’s first public art installation in June 2008, thousands have visited the 325 outdoor art installations exemplifying a variety of mediums.

Art Encounters draws visitors to the retail and civic areas where the pieces are displayed while promoting public interest in art and developing community pride. Please take time to visit the sculptures over the next several months and then vote for your favorites.

Conceived by the Douglas County Cultural Council in 2007, Art Encounters is a year-long outdoor art exhibit showcasing sculptures, in various media and styles. Since its inception, the project has been funded, in part, by the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District and the Philip S. Miller Trust.