Canal Convergence 2013/14 Events - Request for Proposals

Scottsdale Public Art seeks existing work and new concepts for performance, temporary installations, sculpture, and participatory artwork for its Canal Convergence events—a bi-annual series of free community events at the Scottsdale Waterfront featuring large-scale installations, hands-on activities, live music, performances, and an Artisan Market. Up to 18 project opportunities are available for two events with budgets ranging from $4,000-$20,000. All local, national, and international artists, including individuals and collectives/groups/teams, are eligible to apply.

Canal Convergence focuses on the Arizona Canal's architectural form, its function as a power and water utility corridor, and its history as a lifeline in the Sonoran Desert. Artworks may be in and around the canal water—floating, hovering, releasing, revealing, and/or emerging. Light, video, or suspended installations may use the surrounding infrastructure, architecture, and/or canal channel and airspace. Artworks may be physically anchored to the canal banks, canal floor or bridges, or occur at a scheduled moment in time. Proposals should address how the project activates the Scottsdale Waterfront, responds to water and human interaction, sustainable water sources, and connections to the natural Sonoran Desert environment.

Applicants must submit an electronic application through CAFÉ including: a proposal narrative describing the initial design concept and how it responds to Canal Convergence's vision; a current resume or CV with contact information (one per team member for teams); and 6 digital images of previously completed artwork, proposed artwork, or renderings. The deadline for submission is midnight PDT on July 21, 2013. Artists will be selected through a public process selection panel conducted by SPA including representatives from Salt River Project, key event stakeholders, and local Scottsdale Waterfront business owners. Selected artists will be notified via email on July 29, 2013. The two events are: Canal Convergence | Water + Art + Light (November 7-10, 2013) and Canal Convergence | Spring Equinox (March 20-23, 2014).