Fire Station 66 Public Art Project

The Bernalillo County Arts Board solicits a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for artists and artists' teams for a site-specific outdoor public art project at the new Route 66 Visitor Center located at Nine Mile Hill, near Atrisco Vista and I-40 in Albuquerque. The established budget for the project is $22,500. Artists working in a variety of media including sculpture, murals, and mosaics are invited to apply. The call is open only to New Mexico-based artists. The winning artist or team will be responsible for all aspects of design and installation.

The Route 66 Visitor Center is a 21,000 square foot multipurpose center located at approximately 12200 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87121. The facility will include a banquet/event hall, outdoor amphitheater, Route 66 museum, taproom, gift shop, and administrative offices. The artwork must have a strong visual impact for both motorists on Central Avenue and visitors viewing the art piece up close. The design must be culturally relevant and represent the history, heritage, and landscapes of Route 66 in New Mexico. Artists must ensure durability and low maintenance of all materials, with protection against graffiti and ultraviolet rays.

The $22,500 budget includes all fees and expenses associated with the project including materials, equipment, labor, permits, travel, installation, and documentation. Applicants must submit 3-7 images of previous work, 0-1 video, and 1-3 digital images of an initial conceptual design. An artist statement, résumé, questionnaire, and references are required. Artists must demonstrate cultural competency and understanding of Bernalillo County and its history and population. The call is open for 30 days, after which three finalists will be selected to develop detailed designs for presentation to the Selection Committee and community.