Clearwater Water Tank Mural

The Clearwater Public Art & Design Program seeks an artist or artist team to develop artwork for two public water tanks located at 2709 FL-580 in Clearwater, Florida, in the Countryside neighborhood. The city is looking for an engaging mural or image to help beautify the water tanks, which are highly visible on a heavy commuter state road. Suggested themes include sea life, Florida nature scenes, game fish, seabirds, ospreys, water conservation, or postcard-style "Clearwater" murals. The paint required will be Tnemec Series 1026 at 2.0–3.0 mils thickness.

The water tanks hold 5 million gallons each. Only the north side of the tanks (road-facing) will be painted. The east tank has the best sight lines for commuters; designs should measure approximately 15' high and 30–50' wide. The west tank has a smaller visible area and can accommodate a smaller or single image. Altogether, the tanks have approximately 1,500 square feet of eligible surface. Submission for a single mural on one tank is acceptable. The tanks will be cleaned, refurbished, and have a new basecoat by the beginning of 2024.

The selected artist or artist team will be awarded a $30,000 contract and will be responsible for artwork design, fabrication, materials, installation, insurance, travel, public presentations, meetings with City of Clearwater staff, identification plaque, and all related incidental expenses. Clearwater plans to apply for a public art grant; if selected, the budget would be $60,000 with an increased project scope. Due to grant requirements, work could not start until June 1, 2024. Three artists will be selected to provide proposals and will each receive a $1,000 stipend. Final artist selection will take place after review of proposals. Artists will be evaluated on artistic excellence, professional experience, and compatibility with the architectural design, facility environment, and values of the City of Clearwater. This opportunity is open to professional artists residing in Florida. Submissions should include a minimum of two images (maximum six) of finished works or conceptual drawings, a professional resume, and a letter of interest.