Artwork for Manhole Covers

The Ann Arbor Art Center has been chosen to manage the selection of artwork to be produced on cast iron manhole covers throughout the City of Ann Arbor. On average, 200 to 300 manhole covers are replaced each year due to planned major roadway construction and utility projects. This project is part of a city initiative to infuse art into the early stages of construction project planning.

Three artist designs will be selected to be produced on manhole covers throughout a six-year production schedule, likely beginning in 2018. Each winning design is intended to be produced for approximately two years. Each of the three winning designs will be awarded a $1,000 stipend payment from the City. The three winners will be selected by March 2018, with production of the first design expected to begin later in 2018.

Designs must be submitted in a circular format (14" diameter circle) and should be single color only, as manhole covers will be produced in the color and look of the original iron material without painting. Due to the mold manufacturing process, artists are dissuaded from including intricate details, gradations, or shading that cannot be replicated in the final product. All submissions must be original work with no logos or non-original symbols. Special consideration will be given to proposals that express the identity, name, attributes, values, or history of Ann Arbor, though this connection is not required. Proposals should avoid overt references to sports or area educational institutions. Visual design proposals such as illustration, sketch, or image are acceptable in 8.5 x 11" page (PDF) or image (jpeg, 300 dpi) format. One submission per person, team, or collective. Artist statement and brief biography must be included with submission.

Submissions will be reviewed by a committee of community stakeholders and arts professionals. The selection process includes internal reviews by Art Center and City staff, design review by a city-appointed fabricator, external reviews by a committee of area art and design professionals and community leaders, and online public polling of 4-6 semifinalists resulting in three winners to be presented to the City of Ann Arbor for final approval. Semi-finalists will be judged on Overall Creativity, Execution of Design, and Adherence to Submission Guidelines. Geographic location may be used as a tie-breaker, with up to five additional points awarded for artists residing in Washtenaw County, Michigan, the state of Michigan, or the United States. This call is open to all individuals with legal right or authorization to work in the United States.