Barraud Park Public Art Commission

Barraud Park, officially opened in August 1928, was the first park funded by the City of Norfolk to serve the African American community during the Jim Crow era. Named after Alfred V. Barraud, who donated part of his land, the park has served as a vital community gathering space and sanctuary. The park features an amphitheater, basketball courts, football fields, tennis courts, and baseball areas. It holds significant historical importance as the only place in Norfolk where Black tennis players could practice during segregation, and was home to a successful boxing program that trained Olympians and world champions. Today, the park is undergoing a $4.5 million renovation to improve accessibility and parking while preserving its historical character.

This public art commission seeks interconnected artworks that reflect the park's rich history and significance to the Norfolk community. The proposed pieces should be healing and thought-provoking, offering space for reflection on both struggles and triumphs. The artworks should showcase the park's role in overcoming segregation, celebrating resilience, and honoring moments of joy and unity. Scale should vary to create an engaging pedestrian experience, with some pieces intimate and others more commanding. Materials should be weather-resistant and durable, such as metal, stone, ceramics, or mixed media, balancing aesthetic appeal with the natural landscape.

The total project budget is $115,000, covering artist's honorarium, engineering, fabrication, installation, materials, shipping, insurance, travel expenses, project plaque, and final documentation. The selected artist must hire a Virginia licensed contractor for installation and carry Commercial General Liability Insurance naming the City of Norfolk as an additional insured. Up to three finalists may be selected for virtual interviews with the Art Planning Committee. A city contract will be issued with a design phase requiring review and approval by the Norfolk Arts Commission prior to fabrication. Applicants must submit a Statement of Understanding, Letter of Interest (2000-character maximum), resume (maximum two pages), up to ten artwork images, and three professional references. All United States residents are eligible to apply.