Alaska State Council on the Arts - Public Safety Training Academy Public Art Commission

The Alaska State Council on the Arts, on behalf of the State of Alaska Department of Public Safety, is requesting qualifications from professional artists for interior artwork to be commissioned for the Training Academy in Sitka, Alaska. This RFQ is open to all professional artists residing in Alaska. Applicants must be visual artists; applications from architects, landscape architects, or other design professionals will not be considered unless included as part of an artist-led team. Alaska artists in the Sitka region and emerging artists are encouraged to apply.

The total art budget is $15,000. Selected artists' budgets will include all costs of design, engineering, fabrication, installation, artwork transportation, special handling fees, special lighting (if any), photographic documentation, liability and automobile insurance, and an identifying plaque made to State of Alaska Percent for Art Program standards and specifications. State laws related to public construction, including licensing, insurance, bonding, and payment of prevailing wage rates, may apply.

The selection committee has identified the Dining Hall as the site for interior artwork. Several locations were identified: window areas (up to six, approximately 2' x 3'), ramp guardrail (existing rail, approximately 24 feet), or wall (up to 12' x 3' area). Artwork should be related to the mission and core values of the facility, with a connection to the State of Alaska as a whole. Specific themes include honoring the users of the facility as Guardians of the community, honoring the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics, and recognizing the diversity of trainees. Artwork of all durable media will be considered, but surfaces must be easily cleanable, impact and scratch resistant. Natural materials subject to fading may not be proposed for locations near windows or overhead lighting. The installed artwork must be permanent and designed to last the life of the building.

Applications must include: a one-page letter of interest describing your approach to public art, connection to project themes, why your medium would work with the building, and how your work is priced; ten digital images of past work from the past 10-15 years (or any stage of career if relevant); a resume no more than two pages highlighting work, education, training, awards, and recognition from the past 10-15 years; and names, titles, and phone numbers for three professional references. Up to three finalists may be selected and invited to propose. Finalists may be interviewed and provided with plans and paid to develop detailed design proposals. Art should be installed before December 31, 2017.