FNSB North Pole Library Call for Art

The Fairbanks North Star Borough (FNSB) is seeking art for two separate areas of the new North Pole Library. Artists can submit proposals for either area or both. Proposals for each site will be evaluated and awarded separately. The project budget will cover all costs associated with creating and designing the art, including permits, fees, materials, electrical, insurance, delivery, structural engineering, contractor installation, maintenance planning, documentation, and imaging. A plaque identifying the artist and artwork title should be included in the artist's budget.

Site #1 is the main entrance lobby, a clerestory area with natural light from windows on all sides. The space is approximately 39 feet wide and 32 feet deep, with a peak height of 32 feet sloping to 25 feet at the sides. The clerestory ceiling can accommodate a maximum weight of 500 pounds. Site #2 is a fireplace vaulted ceiling area with floor-to-ceiling glass surrounding the fireplace mantle. The peak height is 26 feet sloping to 19 feet at the sides, with a width of approximately 39 feet. Both areas feature glass and steel structures with tongue and groove wood ceilings and glue-laminated wood beams. The artwork must be safe, durable, low-maintenance, resistant to vandalism, and appropriate to the location. Artists proposing suspended art must work with a licensed structural engineer and licensed building contractor. The art must be completed and installed prior to building completion, expected in August 2014.

Artists must develop high-quality work that creates strong spatial and visual impact, enhances the library's architecture and interior design, and connects to the community and library's mission. The project is open to all artists or artist teams. Preference will be given first to local artists in the interior of Alaska (10% of total available points) and second to artists within the State of Alaska (5% of total available points). To qualify as a local or state artist, the offeror must hold a current Alaska business license and meet specific residency or incorporation requirements depending on business structure. Applicants may submit 1-6 images. The application deadline is January 20, 2014 at 11:59 p.m. MST.