Grambling State University Digital Library Public Art Commission

Grambling State University is seeking proposals for sculptural artwork to adorn the western façade of the new Grambling State University Digital Library and Learning Commons. The resulting artwork should complement the building aesthetics and reflect the interconnectedness of public artworks and the communities in which they exist. The artwork should reflect Grambling's history, diversity and cultural profile, and serve as a reminder of the legacy of HBCUs in the Avant Garde, in the lineage of Hale Woodruff, Elizabeth Catlett and John Biggers.

The selected proposal will receive an all-inclusive budget of $96,000 to cover all costs associated with the project, including research, professional consultations, materials, fabrication, transportation, travel, insurance, installation, and documentation. The artwork must be durable, sturdy, stable, suitable for climate conditions, resistant to UV damage, and safe for public interaction. Finalists will be required to attend two meetings: a site visit and a presentation of the artist's proposal before the Art Selection Committee. An honorarium of $1,500 will be paid to artists to offset expenses associated with proposal development and travel.

Applicants must submit a résumé demonstrating a minimum of five years of professional visual art experience, a statement of interest describing why they are interested in the project and their previous experience with public art, three references, and six images of original completed commissions. Up to three videos of work examples are optional. Work samples must be original, recently completed artwork within the last 10 years. This call is open to professional artists 18 and over; artist teams may apply with one designated lead contact. Notifications will be issued by the end of December 2021.