Coverings 2018 and City of Atlanta Student Competition

Coverings 2018 and the City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs have partnered to develop a student competition to create three artistic public benches for the City of Atlanta. This competition is open to graduate and undergraduate students in the Metro Atlanta Area who are currently enrolled in an architecture, sculpture, or studio arts program.

Designs must be functional benches not exceeding 4' L x 4' W x 4' H, with 90% of the surface area covered in tile. The structure must be transportable and address all objectives: encouraging community togetherness and engagement, showcasing the versatility of tile, highlighting the vibrancy of Atlanta, and providing a sense of pride. Submissions must include a dimensioned plan drawn to scale, renderings of the completed structure, elevation and perspective drawings, and a 24"x24" digital presentation board with the piece name, brief description, and inspiration. File submissions should not exceed 5MB for the PDF presentation board and 11"x17" for the presentation board document. Do not place your name or identifying information on your board or you may be disqualified.

Judging criteria include originality of design, artistic merit, design's relevance to the proposed community, design's completion of objectives, and durability of the proposed artwork. Three structures will be selected: first prize receives $3,000, second prize receives $2,000, and third prize receives $1,000. All winning benches will be featured as part of the City of Atlanta beautification project. Honorable mentions will receive $500. Winners will be notified on March 7, with fabrication occurring March 7 through May 5. Award presentation takes place May 8 at 9:45 a.m. during Coverings 2018 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA (May 8-11).