Client: Denver Water

Overview

Curated Sculptures Tell the Story of Water’s Journey for Denver Water Operations Complex

HIGHLIGHTS:
Two of the three commissioned sculptures arrived in the U.S. from the United Kingdom by boat after meticulous creation and fabrication by renowned British artist David Harber.

All three outdoor installments, strategically placed throughout the 35-acre property, are internally illuminated so that observers passing by the campus can view the sculptures at any time of day.

Denver Water employees played an active role in the creation of the art narrative for Rik Sargent’s “Forest to Faucets” sculpture.

Goals

The objective of the collection was twofold. First, we aimed to develop an artistic experience that would define the Denver Water campus and foster an environment of safety, security, and wellbeing for employees – measures to attract and retain the best workers in the water utility industry. Second, we worked to create a public facing collection that would help locals and visitors better understand and appreciate Denver Water’s mission to be a responsible steward of our planet’s natural resources.

Process

Notably, in his piece, “Forests to Faucets,” Rik Sargent demonstrates a deep understanding of Denver’s water pathways, from wild mountain streams to the faucets of local citizens. The sculpture was co-created by Denver Water employees, who molded forests, animals, and notable water system sites into Sargent’s clay model, identifying important landmarks and infusing personal stories into the installation.

In addition, British artist David Harber designed two stainless steel sculptures that resemble the shape and flow of water, each measuring more than 20 feet tall. His “Hydra” sculpture captures water’s dynamic movement, and its seven twisting “branches” were inspired by the mythical, multi-headed Greek serpent monster also named Hydra. In contrast, Harber’s “Water Droplet,” brings awareness to the ripple effects caused by one single droplet of water, illustrating the company’s larger impact on the water utility industry in Colorado and beyond.

Additional Information

The newly-renovated Denver Water campus features a curated sculpture collection showcasing water's journey from Colorado's high peaks to Denver. Comprising three large-scale outdoor sculptures, inspired by the company's history and sustainable approach, the collection serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it enhances the campus environment for employees, promoting safety and well-being. Secondly, it aims to inform the public about Denver Water's mission as a responsible steward of natural resources. Working with sculptors Rik Sargent and David Harber, the team ensured visibility and integration with the project's development. Rik Sargent's "Forests to Faucets" represents Denver's water pathways, celebrating the company's commitment. David Harber's stainless steel sculptures, "Hydra" and "Water Droplet," symbolize water's dynamic movement and illustrate the company's impact on the water utility industry.