Fusion at Neon

The Norfolk Arts Commission and Fusion at Neon Planning Committee seek to commission an artist to design and create public artwork at the gateway to Norfolk's NEON District (New Energy of Norfolk), the city's first official arts district designated in 2013. The site marks the transition from a historic, tree-lined neighborhood into the vibrant urban environment of NEON while signifying the entrance to the Fusion apartment complex, positioned at the intersection of the refined atmosphere of a museum and the raw, eclectic energy of NEON.

The Art Selection Committee is seeking bold, unexpected installations that challenge conventional outdoor sculpture formats. Rather than static pieces on pedestals, the artwork should flow and interact with the space—perhaps wrapping around a corner, climbing a building, or extending into surroundings. The installation should be dynamic, lively, and thought-provoking, designed to engage both pedestrian and vehicular traffic with a scale that commands attention from a distance while offering intricate details for close appreciation. Artists are encouraged to explore motion through kinetic elements or visual perception of movement, reflecting neighborhood themes of water, glass, fluidity, and reflection. The site is equipped with electricity for potential lighting or interactive features. Artwork must be crafted from permanent, low-maintenance materials that are safe, weather-resistant, and durable.

The total budget for the completed, delivered, and installed artwork is $50,000, covering artist's honorarium, engineering, fabrication, installation, materials, shipping, insurance, travel expenses, project plaque, final documentation, and incidental expenses. The artist must hire a Virginia licensed contractor for installation. Up to three finalists may be selected for virtual interviews with the Art Planning Committee; finalists are not expected to complete a design at this stage. A city contract will be issued with a design phase requiring review and approval by the Norfolk Arts Commission prior to fabrication. The selected artist must carry Commercial General Liability Insurance naming the City of Norfolk as an additional insured. Submission deadline is June 18, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. All U.S. resident artists are eligible to apply. Required materials include a Statement of Understanding, Letter of Interest (2000-character max), resume (maximum two pages), up to ten artwork images, and three professional references.