Emmett Scott Recreation Center Courtyard Public Art Call

Women's Art Initiative (WAI) in Rock Hill, SC is seeking proposals from artists and designers to create a contemporary outdoor design feature and artwork depicting historical content on the grounds of the Emmett Scott Recreation Center. The project budget is $30,000.

The artwork should include sculpture or sculptural elements that reflect the history of the site. Emmett Scott High School was founded in 1920 as the first public school for Black students in Rock Hill and was named for educator Emmett J. Scott (1873–1957). Ralph Waldo McGirt served as the school's longest-serving principal. The design should also correlate to the Southside Music and Cultural Trail, as Emmett Scott High School was known for its marching band under director Frontis Brooks, who served from 1941 to 1971.

The public art project will serve as a historic focal point within the green space courtyard of the Emmett Scott Recreation Center, celebrating the history of Emmett Scott and Ralph McGirt as educators while emphasizing the value of music and education. The piece must be pet, child, and family friendly with an encouraging or uplifting component and should include an aspect that allows for photo opportunities with community members. The selected artist or designer will be responsible for design, creation, transportation, and installation of the project and will work with the WAI Selection Committee and City of Rock Hill staff. Submissions must include 10–20 images. Regional eligibility; South Carolina residents only.