Ennis Welcome Center Public Art Competition

The City of Ennis Texas is accepting qualified proposals from artists for a public art installation in the new Ennis Welcome Center. The new center will function as a prominent point of entry for thousands of visitors traveling to Ennis. Artists are invited to create a design and proposal for fabrication and installation of a major public artwork to be installed within the Welcome Center atrium.

The artwork should create a visual and emotional connection with all who experience it, represent Ennis's identity as authentic "Small Town Americana," embody the "Bluebonnet Spirit of Texas," provide insight into the city's history and legacy, welcome and inspire visitors to explore the city, and be recognized nationally as a major public artwork. The quality of the artwork, relevance to the City, and ability to engage public interest are foremost in this initiative. The Welcome Center atrium is an active, multipurpose public area, so any installation must take these factors into account. Since the building is not completed, artists have the option to integrate the ceiling, available walls, and floor into their design.

Budget tiers are: Tier 1: $75,000 and Tier 2: $105,000. Up to three semi-finalists will be selected to conduct a site visit, develop/refine a proposal, and return for interviews. Each semi-finalist will receive a $3,000 honorarium to help cover costs associated with the site visit and proposal. The finalist will be offered an additional $3,000 honorarium to help cover costs associated with preparing a final design model and presentations. Work sample requirements: minimum 5 total samples, maximum 15 total samples (3-15 images, 0-3 audio files, 0-3 video files). Up to 2 applications allowed per artist.