Bloomberg Philanthropies has selected Phoenix for a $1 million Public Art Challenge grant. This unique grant program supports temporary public art projects that address important local civic issues in cities nationwide. Phoenix’s project, ¡Sombra! (Shade) will commission artists to create shading and cooling installations in response to extreme urban heat.

These works may include shade and cooling structures that create street-scale microclimates, installations that promote the protective beauty, comfort, and cooling power of hats and parasols, and other participatory arts experiences that provoke dialogue about rising temperatures and sustainable heat-mitigating tactics. The project will conclude with a family-friendly festival that will engage residents with these public art installations and feature activities for children, food, and music to celebrate and empower the community.

The City of Phoenix was named a finalist in June and is one of just eight winners from more than 150 project proposals received from cities in 40 U.S. states. The project will be developed over the next two years.

Visit publicartchallenge.bloomberg.org​ to learn more about the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge.