Call for Artists - RI Fire Academy Phase 3

The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA) invites artists from New England and New York to submit qualifications for a public art commission at the Rhode Island Fire Academy Phase 3 expansion in Exeter, Rhode Island. Students are not eligible to apply. This project is funded through Rhode Island's Public Art Law, which mandates that 1% of all state capital construction and renovation funds be allocated to purchase and maintain public art.

The Rhode Island Fire Academy serves the training needs of Rhode Island's 6,000 firefighters through basic and advanced training programs. Phase 3 of construction will expand the facility to include a 6,000-square-foot addition with two new 50-person classrooms and a 125-person tiered auditorium, as well as two new free-standing buildings: an 8,500-square-foot training "Fire Station" and a service building for the Urban Search and Rescue Site. The selection panel has identified the new dining area as having the greatest potential for artwork installation, with a ceiling height of 10'-8". The dining area will feature views of the training area and will be used regularly by staff, trainees, and visiting groups.

Artists are invited to submit work that embodies the spirit and purpose of the RIFA training facility, considering themes of collaboration, community, trust, strength, and confidence. The panel encourages artists to reflect on the cultural, social, and historical legacy of fire service and values of public service. Mediums such as ceramic, glass, metalwork, enameling, or other media involving fire in the making are appreciated. Work samples should include 6-8 images. The budget for this commission is $28,000. The deadline for submissions is September 16, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. Optional information sessions will be held on-site on July 23 (10 a.m.-12 p.m. EDT) and July 30 (1-3 p.m. EDT).