Connective Corridor: Public Art to Complete a Major Streetscape

The Connective Corridor, in partnership with Syracuse University College of Visual and Performing Arts, invites artists to submit letters of interest and qualifications along with initial concepts for permanent public artwork to be installed at various sites along the Connective Corridor in Syracuse, NY. The call is open to all professional artists and artist teams based locally, nationally, and internationally. Selected artists should demonstrate expertise in creative placemaking and are welcome to propose work in all media and materials. The selection panel is interested in commissioning artists or design teams who are enthusiastic about engaging and collaborating with the university and community on finalized designs for installation. Artists may propose one installation or a thematic series of installations at sites along the Connective Corridor.

The conceptual theme is "Illuminating the Connective Corridor through Public Art." Public art along the Connective Corridor will metaphorically illuminate the city as a vibrant, radiant place to live, work and engage. Proposals do not need to incorporate lighting as a primary element, but applicants should consider how their work might be creatively illuminated after dark. All media and materials will be considered. The jury is looking for meaningful enduring work that is informed by the physical aspects of the specific site, as well as Syracuse's overall historical and cultural context. In addition to submitting a Resume/CV and artist statement, artists are asked to submit a letter of interest that reflects why they are interested in a public art project in Syracuse, as well as their approach to community engagement.

The Connective Corridor has allocated $650,000 for permanent public art through this solicitation. It is anticipated that individual awards will range from $50,000 to $75,000 per installation, however a larger award could be made for a significant proposal at a key site. The panel will also consider larger awards to an artist or design team for a series of installations that connect a number of sites thematically. Each award will be structured as a lump sum all-inclusive "design-build" contract for permanent art. Applicants should factor in all costs, including artist's design fees, all materials, fabrication, and final installation. Artists are responsible for installation. Work samples should include 5-20 images and up to 1 video. Submission deadline: March 1, 2015 by 11:59 p.m. EST.