2015 New Mexico Only Purchase Initiative

The Art in Public Places program enriches New Mexico's public spaces through an innovative and diverse public art collection. Since its inception in 1986, the program has placed more than 2,500 works of art in all of New Mexico's 33 counties. The objective of the New Mexico Only Purchase Initiative is to diversify the state's public art collection by purchasing artwork from artists in all stages of their careers.

The project is open to artists who reside in New Mexico and galleries located in New Mexico. Galleries may submit qualifications on behalf of any artist represented by the gallery, regardless of the artist's residency. Finalists may be required to submit verifiable proof of residency prior to being awarded a purchase contract. All media in all genres suitable for both interior and exterior display will be considered for purchase. Artwork must be durable, permanent, low-maintenance and in compliance with ADA guidelines upon installation. Artwork will be purchased for publicly accessible buildings throughout the State of New Mexico, including amphitheaters, animal shelters, community centers, courthouses, educational institutions, fire stations, healthcare facilities, recreation complexes, rest areas, and senior centers.

Project budgets range from $1,000 to $20,000, all-inclusive. Purchase contracts will be limited to a $1,000 minimum for each piece. The price is all-inclusive of materials, labor, insurance, taxes, commissions, fees, delivery, installation, travel, museum quality framing under Plexiglas, security-hangers, pedestals for 3-dimensional works, Plexiglas bonnets for small 3-dimensional works, project plaques, and written and professional photographic documentation. Large exterior 3-dimensional work should include site preparation and foundation. Price fluctuations will not be allowed after the submission deadline.

Submissions must include an artist's statement (2000 character limit), a current resume or curriculum vitae, and up to three images of previously completed work currently available for purchase with complete citations including title, media, dimensions, price, year of completion, and description. Contact New Mexico Arts prior to applying if artwork is smaller than 11 inches or larger than 80 inches in height or width. A Submission Review Committee of artists and arts professionals will score applications. The final pool of artwork will be reviewed by Regional Buying Committees made up of representatives from owner and user agencies of eligible sites. Selection criteria include professional qualifications, ability to create art of unique vision and highest caliber, developed and consistent style, and artistic merit and superior craftsmanship. Artwork included in the final pool is not a guarantee of sale. Artists whose work is selected will be required to enter into a purchase contract with the State of New Mexico. Payment will be made upon completion of contract terms and a site visit verification by Art in Public Places staff. Project timeline: July 2015 announcement, August 23, 2015 submission deadline, September 2015 finalist notification, October 2015-June 2016 purchase notifications, October 2015-December 2016 artwork installation.