City of Gallup Public Safety Building - Site Specific Commission Project

The Art in Public Places Program of New Mexico Arts and the Local Selection Committee of the City of Gallup seek to commission 1-3 artists/artist teams to create and install site-specific artwork for three designated areas in the lobby of the new Public Safety building. The program seeks artwork that will create a warm, comforting, and peaceful atmosphere while corresponding with the existing color palette within the space. The artwork should respond to and recognize the local traditions and cultural heritage of the area.

Proposed artwork should incorporate interpretations ranging from abstract to figurative styles in any medium except murals directly painted on walls and jewelry. Artwork must be hung on the wall and cannot exceed 250 pounds. The work must contribute to a warm, welcoming, comforting, calming, reflective, peaceful, or serene space and should complement the current color palette. Artwork cannot contain elements considered violent, derogatory, or culturally insensitive, and cannot incorporate elements requiring electricity, kinetic or interactive features, or water features. Materials must be durable and suitable for permanent interior installation with exposure to afternoon west-setting sunlight and high public traffic, and must meet all applicable code requirements including ADA compliance.

The project budget is $115,150 available to commission 1-3 artists/artist teams, covering all fees and expenses including materials, equipment, labor, permits, engineering documents, insurance, taxes, travel, installation, shipping, identification plaque, and documentation. This is a Request for Qualifications only; do not submit artwork proposals at this time. Eligibility is open to artists/artist teams currently residing in or with ties to the Gallup/McKinley County area. Current employees or family members of City of Gallup or NM Department of Cultural Affairs are not eligible. Up to five finalists will be invited to submit formal proposals and will receive a $1,000 honorarium plus travel stipends based on distance ($500 for 50-300 miles one-way, $900 for 301-800 miles, $1,800 for 801+ miles). Submissions must include an artist statement addressing your artwork approach, style, perspective, and background, plus a current resume or curriculum vitae with links to personal website, online portfolio, or social media demonstrating relevant work experience, particularly in public art.