Bound For Books! A Public Art Project Featuring Unique Book Benches

Bound For Books is a public art project that commissions artists to design and paint ten artistic book benches for Downtown Danville. The project aims to encourage reading, provide a place for people to rest, and instill in the community an understanding and appreciation of public art. Selected artists will serve as independent contractors of the Town of Danville, which retains ownership of the benches and designs, including reproduction rights, physical maintenance, and lifespan. All uses of the bench will credit the artist.

Designs must be original ideas that are transformative in nature—no direct copies of book covers or illustrated scenes pulled directly from books. Each design should cover the entire bench (front, sides, and back). The bench dimensions are 48 inches wide, 38 inches tall, and 38 inches deep, weighing approximately 110 pounds. Artists must be able to physically handle moving the bench or have an assistant. A vinyl placard (approximately 6 inches x 6 inches) will be applied to the lower right-hand corner with the artist name, sponsor, and Town logo in black ink.

The Town of Danville will provide the book bench and graffiti varnish; artists must supply their own paint and brushes. Painting takes place at the artist's studio, and artists must transport the bench in their own vehicle. Selected artists will receive a $1,000 stipend. Artists will be notified of selection by February 6, 2023. Benches will be picked up April 10-13, 2023, and returned June 5-7, 2023. They will be displayed outdoors from June 9 through September 2023. This opportunity is open to professional artists and serious art students who reside in one of the nine Bay Area Counties. Applications from members of historically marginalized or underrepresented communities are encouraged.