Glenarm Power Plant Public Art

The City of Pasadena and its Department of Water and Power are seeking an artist or artist team to create an experiential artwork that improves the visual impact of the Glenarm Power Plant day and night, enhancing it with light, color, and/or motion-activated artwork. The project is intended to celebrate the entrance to Pasadena but cannot create light pollution or traffic distraction. This project is subject to the City of Pasadena Capital Improvement (CIP) Public Art Program Guidelines.

The Glenarm Power Plant is a dramatic series of industrial installations at the south edge of Pasadena, including a steam plant, gas generating units, and a historic art deco building with a tile fountain entrance. The plant serves as a visual landmark and gateway to downtown Pasadena for motorists entering the City from Los Angeles via the Pasadena Freeway. The site is bisected by Metro's Gold Line light rail and bordered on the east by the freeway and Blair International Baccalaureate School. The dominant audience for the site is vehicular—by automobile or light rail.

The total artwork budget is $765,000. Up to four selected proposers will be paid $5,000 each to prepare conceptual design proposals. The remaining $745,000 covers project construction and installation, including a 10% contingency, further conceptual design, schematic and final design, working documents, and oversight of fabrication and installation. The selected artist will be required to participate in up to three public meetings and collaborate with City staff to ensure the artwork meets safety standards and can be easily maintained. Project completion is projected for August 2018. Eligibility is limited to US-based artists or artist/design teams. Local artist preference applies. Work samples must include 8-10 images and up to 2 videos.