Chicago Tree Project

Chicago Sculpture International, in collaboration with the Chicago Park District, is seeking experienced artists and artist teams to transform dying trees in Chicago parks into sculptures. This Request for Proposals seeks an experienced artist or artist team to create beautiful, original, unique works of art that will become a distinguishing feature in the neighborhood. The approach can be additive and/or subtractive. Trees will be approximately 16-30 ft. tall and may include main side branches. CSI will provide the tree/site scaffold and a fence around the site during construction for a one-month period (artists can apply for an extension). Due to the condemned nature of the tree, the Chicago Park District reserves the right to remove it at their discretion.

Your approach will not compromise the integrity of the tree. Objects created will not help people to climb the trees or cause attached objects to fall or need maintenance. Before work begins, any branches less than 8" in diameter will be cut, as well as any branches that extend 6' beyond the trunk of the tree. You may propose two concepts, but only one will be accepted. Selected artists will be notified of an available tree that matches their concept drawing.

Each artist should submit qualifications that address projects of similar scale, demonstrating comfort working with appropriate equipment and at heights required for this project. Selected artists must follow safety criteria and are encouraged to complete an OSHA scaffolding certification course. Liability insurance must be in place while working on the project. A $3,500 stipend is paid upon completion of the tree sculpture. Submit a maximum of 6 digital images, with at least one being a mock-up or drawing of your proposed tree sculpture. Other images should be samples of relevant past work. It should be clear which images are of your proposal as opposed to past work. Application deadline: Friday, March 6, 2020, 11:59 pm CST. International eligibility.