Giant Rhino Statue Unleashes Excitement at Denargo Market: Naming Contest Launched!
A monumental 30-foot tall rhino statue has roared onto the scene at 29th Street and Arkins Court, marking a vibrant new chapter for Denargo Market—a sprawling 17-acre mixed-use development nestled in Denver’s flourishing RiNo Art District. This eye-catching installation isn’t just a sculpture; it’s a clarion call to the community, encouraging locals to participate in an exciting contest to name this major landmark.
A Beacon of Community Engagement
Sean Campbell, CEO of FORMATIV, emphasized the significance of this artistic venture: “Before the entire site is fully built out, we want to establish Denargo Market as a must-visit destination.” The rhino symbolizes that desire, inviting Denverites to climb its all-weather panels, snap memorable photos, and explore the adjacent parks and river activation areas. It’s not just artwork; it’s a landmark meant to be enjoyed for generations.
Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post
A Marvel of Design and Construction
Constructed from weatherized steel, the Denargo Rhino features custom paint, integrated lighting, and birdhouses that contribute to its playful design. This extraordinary piece is the brainchild of landscape architect Sasaki, in collaboration with the talented teams at Golub & Co. and FORMATIV, with engineering support from Craft Engineering Studio.
While the Denargo Rhino may seem formidable, it is a “baby” statue when compared to Denver’s other famed sculptures, like the 32-foot-tall Blucifer at Denver International Airport and the 40-foot blue bear conversing with the convention center.
Join the Fun: Name the Rhino Contest
As part of the "Name the Rhino" campaign, locals are encouraged to contribute their creative ideas for naming this colossal beast. Participants can submit their suggestions through Thursday, June 5. Soon after, finalists will be revealed, opening the floor for public voting. The winning name will be celebrated during an unveiling event with Denver City Councilman Darrell Watson on June 12.
Laura Newman, VP of Investment & Development at Golub & Co., expressed her enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled to invite the community to be part of this story and to help us give this iconic rhino a name that reflects Denver’s character and creativity.”
What Lies Ahead at Denargo Market?
Spanning the scenic South Platte riverfront, just north of downtown, Denargo Market is poised for 3 million square feet of development. This ambitious project promises over 1,000 residential units for rent, alongside vibrant retail, office spaces, and 4 acres of public parks featuring sports courts, nature-based play areas, community gardens, and even a revitalized dog park.
Since September 2023, extensive construction has been underway, transforming infrastructure and public parks into community hubs. To date, $190 million has been invested in the development, generating an estimated $50 million in revenue for the City and County of Denver.
A Historic Transformation
Once home to Denver’s largest food market, which housed over 500 grower stands, this site faced devastation in July 1971 when a four-alarm fire wiped it out, leaving the area largely industrial and vacant. Today, it stands revitalized, welcoming a new era of creativity and community spirit.
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