Art in Public Buildings RFQ: University of Wyoming Student Housing Project

The University of Wyoming is seeking artists for a public art commission in the Student Housing Project, a new facility providing 950 beds of housing and a dining facility with seating for up to 850. The dining hall will be open to the general public, staff, and faculty.

The artwork will be installed on a two-story wall in the center of the public dining area, located under a skylight with evening illumination from mezzanine railing lights. The wall has viewing capability from both ground floor and mezzanine. The committee seeks a dynamic, integrated artwork that can be 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional shallow relief-style. Traditional murals, mosaics, projections, shallow relief, and unexpected use of material are all of interest, though all ideas for the space are welcome. Proposed artwork should not conflict with materials being used in the Student Housing Project. Artists will not be able to change the shape, structure, or size of the wall.

Submissions are due July 12, 2024 via CaFÉ and must include a portfolio, resume, cover letter addressing the project, and images of current or previous work (minimum 1 image, maximum 10 images; up to 2 videos allowed). The selection committee will review submissions in August 2024. Selected artists will be invited in September 2024 to submit a complete formal design proposal including budget, timeline, and references. Proposal packets must include additional lighting needs, signage, structural support if needed, design fees, material costs, labor for fabrication and installation, and all costs for planning, completion, delivery, and installation. There will be modest financial compensation for final design proposals and in-person presentations. Construction completion and occupancy of North Hall is targeted for fall 2025. A specific timeline for fabrication and installation will be established upon selection.

Eligibility: U.S. citizen or legal resident, minimum 18 years of age, demonstrated previous experience and expertise through portfolio submission, willingness to meet project deadlines, ability to work closely with project managers and accept feedback, and willingness to travel for presentations if selected as a finalist. If selected, applicant will sign a contract with the State of Wyoming. Final artwork becomes the property of the Wyoming State Museum. Artists retain copyright; the State of Wyoming receives permission to use images for publicity of Art in Public Buildings projects. Project budget is $90,000.