Artistic Metal Structures for N Street Park Stage

The City of Davis Civic Arts Commission invites qualified artists or collaborative teams to design and create a new piece of public art for N Street Park improvements. The project involves creating two functional metal elements: 1) an open-form metal superstructure for lighting and theatrical armature with a minimum height of around 10 feet, designed to support lighting, backdrops, curtains, or a fabric canopy; and 2) an open-form metal screen approximately 4 feet high and 8 feet wide positioned at the back of the stage to partially screen the backstage area from audience view, with potential for moving parts that can swing open for different uses.

The stage will consist of a low (6 inch high) poured concrete platform in the southwest corner of the park, with approximate dimensions of 20 x 10 feet, backed by the existing muralled wall. Electrical power sufficient for theatrical lighting and sound amplification will be provided and should be integrated into the proposed stage concept. The vision is to create a space well-suited to small musical and theatrical performances and other presentations by neighborhood residents and local performing arts groups. The selected artist or team will collaborate closely with project managers from the City of Davis Arts & Cultural Affairs Program, the Davis Manor Neighborhood Council, and technical experts including structural engineers, city theater technicians, city building officials, and construction contractors.

The scope of work includes design, fabrication, and installation of the two metal elements. Construction of the stage itself, including excavation, foundation, electrical connections, and concrete, will be completed under a separate City contract. Foundations for the superstructure and screen will be completed in consultation with the selected artist(s) by City contractors under a separate contract. Installation is scheduled for Summer 2023. Work samples required: 8-10 images and up to 1 video (8-11 total samples). Budget: $45,000. Eligibility: Regional (California).