A new Art in Public Places Committee is being created this summer as a branch of the Economic Development Advisory Committee in Silverthorne.

The committee is tasked with identifying appropriate art locations and obtaining art to be displayed in Silverthorne, meant to create a sense of community and vibrancy.

“EDAC is excited about this opportunity to create color and vitality in our community for business owners, residents, and visitors,” EDAC chairman Eddie O’Brien said. O’Brien was also behind Dillon’s Pocket Parks Committee.

The effort is an extension of the town’s efforts to enhance Silverthorne’s overall aesthetic appeal on both public and private properties.

“Silverthorne already has some spectacular public spaces,” Councilwoman Ann-Marie Sandquist said. “Adding art to these key areas, such as along the Blue River Trail or at the planned River’s Edge Park, is just one more way to showcase Silverthorne’s beauty to both our residents and visitors.”

This summer, a new park, River’s Edge Park, will be constructed along the western edge of the Blue River, just north of the Rainbow/Wildernest intersection. The Committee anticipates that this will be an ideal place for an inaugural art piece.

Another initial step will be to begin raising funds to purchase art.

“The art pieces and surrounding landscape and benches will be funded by the private sector, not the town,” O’Brien said. The town will contribute by offering space for the displays on town property and maintaining the sites once the art is installed.

The committee needs three citizens to join the four EDAC representatives, one Silverthorne Parks, Open Space, Recreation and Trails Committee member and one town council member. Citizen members should have knowledge, skill and expertise in fundraising.

Submit letters of interest by June 28 to: Town of Silverthorne, Attn: Art in Public Places Committee, PO Box 1309, Silverthorne, CO 80498 or email them to jbreigenzer@silverthorne.org.

For more information, visit http://www.silverthorne.org.