Cedar Rapids Public Library Public Art Commissions

The Cedar Rapids Public Library Public Art Task Force is seeking qualifications from artists for two separate public art commissions at the library being rebuilt as part of Cedar Rapids recovery from the 2008 flood. The new library will be built at 421 Fourth Avenue SE and is slated to open in summer 2013.

Call #1: Urban Plaza. The Task Force will commission a significant artwork to enhance the urban plaza on the north side of the library, facing Greene Square Park. The plaza features stair step terraces designed for public gathering, programming, and as a main entrance. The artwork footprint should not exceed 30'h x 10'w. Project goals include creating a sense of arrival at this civic building, aesthetically enhancing the building, and reflecting essential qualities of Cedar Rapids. Budget: $225,000 including design, fabrication, and installation. Up to three finalists will be selected to develop concept proposals and will each receive a $500 proposal fee.

Call #2: Exterior Art Installation—South Entrance Landscaping. The Task Force seeks to commission landscaped artwork that will enhance the exterior entrance on the south side and act as seating for visitors. This space will serve as a main entrance for those parking in the south parking lot and as a possible gathering space. Project goals are the same as Call #1. Budget: $100,000 including design, fabrication, and installation. Up to three finalists will be selected to develop concept proposals and will each receive a $500 proposal fee.

Eligibility: Open to all professional artists and artist teams. Selection criteria include artistic excellence as demonstrated by past work, understanding of the project and ability to respond to project goals, and availability to meet the project timeline. Finalists will make proposal presentations via conference call. The final recommendation must be approved by the Board of Trustees.

Submission Requirements: Artists must submit through the CaFÉ online system an artist statement (not exceeding 1000 characters), current artistic resume (no longer than 750 words), six digital images of previous artwork, an image list with title, medium, dimensions, description, location, date, and budget/price for each image, and names of three references with current contact information. Artists may submit qualifications for either or both calls but must create a separate application for each. Deadline: February 29, 2012.