The Gadsden Public Arts Project seeks an artist or artists team to create an engaging artwork to be purchased and placed in Downtown Gadsden. Artists with previous experience in creating public art are encouraged to apply. Works should be under 20ft high and be able to anchor to a base not larger than 10 x 10. The sculpture must be durable and constructed from appropriate outdoor materials.
The project aims to promote public art in Gadsden, AL. We believe that public art contributes to the city’s cultural vitality, creating an environment that reflects diversity of thought and expression while also enhancing economic development.
The Gadsden Public Arts Project is a collaboration of organizations, including Downtown Gadsden Incorporated (DGI), Gadsden Museum of Art, Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts, Greater Gadsden Area Tourism, The Etowah Chamber of Commerce, The Walnut Gallery, Gadsden State, and the City of Gadsden, AL.
This project is funded by the collaborating organizations and support from the Alabama State Council on the Arts.
Theme
While there is no specific theme for the commission, we strongly encourage applicants to submit works that promote universal ideals of kindness, inclusiveness, and tolerance. Although not required, artists are encouraged to incorporate kinetic elements into the work.
Location
The sculpture will be installed outdoors in a green space, which is open and accessible to the public. The space is located at the corner of 1st Street and Broad Street in Downtown Gadsden, across the street from City Hall. A large colorful mural is displayed at the back of the park. This space is highly visible and serves as a welcome to the Downtown area.
Budget
The budget for the sculpture purchase is $25,000. This amount includes the cost of materials, fabrication, and shipping. For works that exceed the purchase price as set by the market price of documented sales, the committee will consider a 20-year lease. The organization will cover site preparation, foundation, and installation costs. Lodging and travel expenses will be provided for the artists.
Eligibility
The project is open to any artist or artist team legally abiding and eligible to work in the United States. Artists must be 18 years or older. The artists must demonstrate professional experience and the ability to create public art that meets safety and durability requirements. Alabama artists are strongly encouraged to apply.
Selection Process
The Gadsden Public Arts Project will review the applications and qualifications of the artists and invite three finalists to present their proposals in Gadsden for a public presentation in November of 2022. Travel expenses will be provided for the finalists. Finalists will be asked to present their work to several area schools as part of the process. The selected artist will be notified in November of 2022.
How to Apply
For consideration, please provide an electronic PDF document that consists of the following:
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- Letter of interest – Not more than 1 page.
- CV – Not more than 2 pages
- Evidence of Artistic Ability – Not more than 12 images or 3 pages.
- Design or actual images of proposed sculpture – Not more than 3 pages.
- Three professional references – Not more than one page.
The PDF should not exceed 10 pages. Please email the form to mario@walnutgallery.org with the subject line GPAP Proposal followed by your name. For example: GPAP Proposal Bill Johnson
Deadline: October 15, 2022.
Project Timeline: Dates are subject to change
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- August 15 Announce RFP
- October 15 – RFP Deadline
- November 1 -11 – Finalist invited to present
- November 18 – Winning artist announced
- June 1, 2023– Installation
Terms and Conditions
The selected artist will enter into a contract with the Walnut Gallery on behalf of the Gadsden Public Arts Project before funds are dispersed, or work begins. The artist will receive a sum of $10,000 upon signing a contract. The remaining $15,000 will be awarded upon the final installation. Complete terms will be presented in the contract.
Finalists will receive travel funds to cover the cost of travel and lodging not to exceed $2,000.