City of Seattle: City Hall Galleries Exhibition Proposals

The City of Seattle is seeking visual art exhibition proposals for the City Hall Galleries (Lobby Gallery and Anne Focke Gallery) for the period July 2018 - June 2019. Exhibitions should reflect the broad diversity of Seattle's communities and showcase the life of the city through the work and activities of its residents, artists, and community organizations. Shows that highlight race and social justice through art making are encouraged.

Eligibility is limited to Seattle-based community groups and artist groups. Individual artists may apply only as part of a group show or if specifically supported by a sponsoring organization with work of great significance to Seattle. The City encourages exhibitions that reflect its commitment to racial and social justice and the diversity of Seattle's communities. Special consideration will be given to exhibitions with enough work to fill both galleries (typically 30-50 framed, ready-to-install works). Exhibition spaces are equipped for two-dimensional materials only; three-dimensional exhibitions will be considered only if applicants provide all necessary display cases. Video and media works are not accepted.

The Lobby Gallery features eight double-sided metal peg-board panels (6 feet tall, 4 feet wide). The Anne Focke Gallery features a 120-foot long display wall with professional hanging system on the L2 level. Exhibitions are typically displayed for six to eight weeks. Exhibitors are responsible for artwork preparation, transportation, mounting, framing, labels, and explanatory text. All work must be mounted or framed with professional hanging straps or D-rings. The City provides installation and curatorial advice. Exhibitors display at their own risk; there is no insurance provided. Receptions can be held during City Hall's normal operating hours (7 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday-Friday). Tables, chairs, lectern, and microphones are available. No budget is provided for this opportunity.

Applications must include a letter of interest (not exceeding 4,000 characters), fifteen artwork images with captions, and image formatting per www.callforentry.org/imaging_tips. Selection criteria include quality of presentation and artistic merit, relationship of exhibition material to the life of the city, treatment of subject matter, and technical and legal feasibility. Exhibitions containing graphic depictions of violence, sexually explicit imagery, and/or nudity are highly discouraged. The City Hall Exhibition Review Panel (CHERP) will evaluate proposals and has final authority over selection, placement, and arrangement of works. The City reserves the right to adjust exhibition dates.