Hiland Theater Sculpture and Bus Shelter Commission

The Bernalillo County Arts Board, New Mexico Arts, National Dance Institute of New Mexico (NDI-NM), and ABQ Ride are seeking preliminary design concepts for a commissioned work of art and bus shelter to be located in front of the newly renovated Hiland Theater at 4800 Central Avenue SE on Historic Route 66 in Albuquerque. The site is in the front landscaping strip between the theater parking lot and sidewalk, visible to motorists, bus passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Originally opened in 1950 as a movie house, the Hiland Theater was renovated with government grants and private donations and now houses the National Dance Institute of New Mexico.

The call is open to artists legally residing in Route 66 states: California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, and Illinois. Proposals should consider the newly redeveloped exterior and incorporate a sense of movement, with sensitivity to the site and the spirit of the Hiland Theater. Artists may choose to leave space for a bus shelter to be provided by the City of Albuquerque or design the bus shelter as part of the project. Proposals are encouraged to use exterior-appropriate, durable, low-maintenance materials. The artwork must be nearly transparent from 3' to 6' above ground for traffic visibility and must comply with City of Albuquerque Transportation Department regulations and all applicable agencies. Public safety is a priority; the artwork should not pose a threat of injury.

Project funds total $120,000: $100,000 from Bernalillo County Public Art Funds and $20,000 from the City of Albuquerque Transportation Department if the artist designs and installs the bus shelter. Up to three finalists will be selected and paid a $1,000 stipend to present developed design concepts and maquettes. The artist is responsible for design, fabrication, shipping, and installation. Bus shelter design requirements include minimum dimensions of 5' deep x 14' wide with 7' roof height for ADA clearance, ADA-accessible level landing, and seating for 3 or more people. Submissions must be posted online by 5:00 PM, January 14th, 2014. Submit concept statement, artist statement, résumé, 1-5 digital images of conceptual design, 2-5 images of previous work, and up to three professional references.