City of San Jose: Interpretive Artworks Water Pollution Control Center

The City of San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs and Environmental Services Department are seeking an artist to create interpretive artworks for long-term display at the Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP). The interpretive artworks are intended to be an integrative aspect of the current WPCP tours that encourage visitors to reflect upon the issues that impact water conservation and use. WPCP tours are conducted in busses; therefore the artworks must be visible at a distance, or incorporate aspects that take this in consideration. There may also be opportunities to develop interpretive artwork for the WPCP lecture hall, or for the introductory element of the tour. During project development the selected artist will tour the WPCP individually and with tour groups, meet with ESD staff, and learn about the WPCP master plan, which is currently in development.

The San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant is one of the nation's largest and most advanced wastewater treatment facilities, serving more than 1.4 million residents and businesses in eight tributary cities. The WPCP was constructed in 1956 with a capacity to treat up to 167 million gallons of wastewater per day. The water undergoes a sophisticated, 18-hour treatment process that simulates natural water purification. By the time the wastewater is discharged into the Bay, 99% of water impurities have been removed.

Project budget is $100,000, which includes all expenses related to research, design, fabrication and installation of the artworks including engineering, construction documentation, fabrication, transportation and installation of materials, transportation and accommodations for artist(s), insurance, and all other project related expenses. A 10% contingency on the construction budget is designated for unforeseen conditions. Artists based in the United States are invited to apply and must have all necessary documentation and permits to work in the United States at the time of submittal. Artist selection will be a two-phase process: a panel will review qualifications and develop a short list, and three finalists will be interviewed on July 14, 2009. Artists must be available to attend the interview either in person or remotely via telephone. The Public Art Committee of the San Jose Arts Commission will review the panel's recommendation on July 21, 2009. Selection criteria include aesthetic merit of past projects and appropriateness of concepts, experience and success in creating public artworks in collaboration with stakeholders, and experience developing environmental artworks. Submissions must be received as a complete application via CaFÉ™ by midnight MDT on Friday, June 19, 2009. There is no application fee.