2023 APP Hawai'i Request for Qualifications

The State Foundation on Culture and the Arts (SFCA) Art in Public Places Program is requesting qualifications from individual artists for artwork to be commissioned for various locations statewide. In accordance with Hawai'i Revised Statute 103-8.5, this RFQ aims to establish a qualified pool of professional artists for consideration. Sites for art may include opportunities for three-dimensional freestanding sculpture, two-dimensional images translated into durable materials, and large painted murals. Specific locations have not been announced.

This RFQ is open to National and International Artists, with Hawai'i artists given special consideration. A Hawai'i Artist is defined as an artist who was born and/or educated in Hawai'i regardless of current residence; obtained a major part of artistic training and development in Hawai'i; is a Hawai'i resident; or has made a significant impact in Hawai'i through exhibitions, installations, and/or commissions. Interested artists should submit a resume, artist's written statement of design philosophy, and seven (7) images of completed work. Selection criteria include appropriateness of the artist's medium, style, and previous professional experience.

After the application deadline, SFCA staff will screen applicants for compliance with selection criteria to establish a qualified candidate pool. Pre-qualified artists will be presented to various Art Advisory Committees (AAC). Up to five semi-finalists may be asked to develop a detailed design proposal for each location or participate in an interview. After reviewing proposals or interviewing artists, the AAC will recommend candidate(s) to the SFCA Board of Commissioners for final approval. Artists selected for commissioned artworks are required to obtain a General Excise License from the Hawai'i State Tax Office and a certificate of vendor compliance from Hawai'i Compliance Express before the contract is awarded. For questions, contact Alexandra Skees ([email protected]) or Kamakani Konia ([email protected]), SFCA Art in Public Places Project Managers.