East Mesa Public Recreation Complex Public Art Commission

Las Cruces Public Art (LCPA) seeks an artist or artist team to create a site-specific outdoor art piece for the new East Mesa Public Recreation Complex (EMPRC), a 10-acre park located in East Las Cruces off Sonoma Springs Ave. The recreation complex features two baseball fields, two soccer fields, eight pickleball courts, and will include sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, a skatepark, and amphitheater in future phases. The proposed artwork site is in the 10-acre park near the intersection of Sonoma Springs Ave. and Camino Coyote Lane, with views of the Organ Mountains.

The commission is open to all artists and artist teams regardless of background or experience level, though applicants should demonstrate expertise and professionalism commensurate with the project scope and budget. The $100,000 budget covers all design, fabrication, installation, materials, equipment, labor, permits, engineering documents, insurance, shipping, and documentation. The artwork must be freestanding, 3-dimensional, durable, and large enough to be visible from multiple vantage points. Design considerations may include activity, vitality, movement, sound, light, historical/archeological aspects, sustainable themes, and should serve as a focal point and photo opportunity. The artwork must be UV/sun resistant, non-glare, low maintenance, and safe for a permanent outdoor installation in a desert climate. No solely painted murals or sports-specific functional artwork will be accepted.

Up to three semi-finalists will be invited to submit formal proposals including a 1/8 scale maquette, renderings, fabrication schedule, budget outline, and maintenance schedule. Semi-finalists will receive a $750 honorarium and must present their proposals in person to the Art Selection Committee and public. The selection process prioritizes professional qualifications, proven ability to undertake projects of this scope and scale, artistic merit and craftsmanship, and suitability to project intent and site conditions. The timeline includes approximately 60 days from semi-finalist notification to in-person presentation, 60 days from presentation to award announcement, and 12 months from contract signing to installation completion.