2025 Call for 2-D Existing Art

The City of Albuquerque Public Art Urban Enhancement Division is conducting an open competition for artists living in New Mexico to purchase existing 2-D artworks for the City of Albuquerque Public Art Collection. One hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) is available for purchasing artworks. The committee is interested in purchasing existing works that show compelling craftsmanship and technique in a range of media including painting, printmaking, drawing, collage, weaving, mixed media, photography, and assemblage. Digital photography and original works must be printed on archival paper using archival inks; Giclée reproductions will not be accepted. Artworks must be completed within the last three years and be appropriate for public display at city facilities including Albuquerque City Hall, Convention Center complexes, city libraries, community centers, and other city-owned facilities.

Eligibility is open to legal residents of New Mexico who are 18 years of age or older. Proof of New Mexico Tax Identification may be required. City employees and their families are eligible to submit works of art for purchase under $1,000. Only one work may be chosen for purchase from an individual artist. If submitted work is sold prior to notification, no substitutes will be allowed.

Artists must submit up to two existing artwork submissions, a statement under 500 words describing the artwork, medium, dimensions, year of completion, and cost including framing, and a current CV/brief resume not exceeding 500 words. If selected for purchase, all two-dimensional works must be framed with museum quality framing in new condition and ready for immediate display. Framing requirements vary by medium and include specifications for substrate, mat type, backing, mounting, frame material, and protective covering. The Selection Committee will jury the artwork and recommend selections to the full Arts Board.