6th Avenue Bridge Public Art Commission

The Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation, in partnership with the 6th Avenue Corridor, Inc. and the City of Des Moines, invites qualified artists, artisans, and designers to develop creative proposals for the functional integration of artwork into the 6th Avenue Bridge. The bridge, built in 1966 and scheduled for rehabilitation beginning summer 2012, spans the Des Moines River between Hickman Road and Birdland Drive, connecting Birdland Park and North High School to historic urban neighborhoods. An inventive, pedestrian-scale design could incorporate creative elements into areas including entrance, gateway, handrail, and lighting.

The GDMPAF has earmarked $250,000 for the proposed artwork or work of design, covering expenses associated with design, labor, materials, tools, contracted services, and travel. A design honorarium of $2,000 will be awarded to each finalist. Any functional integration of artwork must meet design specifications and standards for bridges set by AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Office) and Iowa Department of Transportation. The selected artist or artist team will work with the GDMPAF and may be expected to present the artwork to the community.

Submissions must be made online through CaFE at www.callforentry.org in digital format. Six images are required. There is no application fee. The selection panel, composed of GDMPAF members, project design team, community leaders, and 6AC representatives, will evaluate applications based on written statements, portfolio quality, and previous experience. Finalists will be notified by April 9, 2012, and will present to the Selection Panel on May 7, 2012. The selected artist or design team will be announced on May 14, 2012.