Alaska State Council on the Arts: AVTEC Applied Tech Campus Public Art Commission

The Alaska State Council on the Arts is requesting qualifications from professional artists residing in Alaska for interior and exterior artwork to be commissioned for the new AVTEC Applied Technology Campus: Diesel and Heavy Equipment Shops in Seward, Alaska. The total art budget is $95,000 USD, divided for two commissioned artworks. Artwork is anticipated to be installed between February 2016 and May 2016. The facility is scheduled for substantial completion on January 29, 2016.

Up to 5 finalists may be selected on a competitive basis and may be interviewed. Finalists may be considered for more than one location or site. Site #1 is an exterior building wall with a budget of up to $70,000 (approximately 6' x 50' along one grid line and 6' x 30' along another). Site #2 offers interior lobby locations with a total budget of $25,000, either as traditional wall space (approximately 6' x 30' and 6' x 16' areas) or as photography infused into translucent resin in coordination with 3Form. The Art Selection Committee requests artwork responding to themes including: the State of Alaska transportation industry reflected through movement, rotation, and gears; and Alaska industry and technology both past and present, with antique meeting modern ideas. Design considerations include marine environment exposure, high wind conditions (160 MPH 3-second gust), seismic design category D for exterior work, and ADA compliance for interior circulation areas.

Artists must submit: a one-page letter of interest describing their approach to public art, connection to project themes, and how their medium would work with the building; 10 digital images of past work created in the past 10-15 years; a resume no more than two pages; and names, titles, and phone numbers for three professional references. The commissioned artist will be required to contract with the architect of record, Bettisworth North, for design assistance and coordination. All associated professional service costs shall be paid by the artist. Artwork must be designed for minimal maintenance, be permanent and designed to last the life of the building, and consider public safety. Replacement features, if required, must be commercially available in Alaska.