Ira D. Hall Square Public Art Commission: Building Graphic Design

This public art request for qualifications is one of two art commissions for Ira D. Hall Square, a new 176-unit affordable housing development in Sunnyvale. The opportunity is to design a 340-foot-long graphic using Flexfacade, a printable and energy-saving material that provides a visual shield for the parking garage. Design themes, style, and pattern are up to the artist, though there is particular interest in the natural history and/or indigenous cultural heritage of the area to inspire the artwork. Preference is given to neutral tones that are more reflective, though many strategies are welcome. The selected artist(s) will be responsible for designing the graphic, presenting to the MidPen team for design review, and coordinating with the subcontractor to prepare files for the engineered panels.

Ira D. Hall Square is scheduled for completion in Fall 2025 and will feature 39 studios, 47 one-bedroom, 44 two-bedroom, and 44 three-bedroom apartments. The seven-story complex will include 174 units designated for families earning between 30 to 70 percent of the Area Median Income, with 45 units specifically supporting individuals facing or at risk of chronic homelessness. The development is located north of the Lawrence Caltrain Station in Santa Clara County.

Applicants must submit a portfolio of 6 to 12 images of past work with dimensions, media, location, and commission details; a one-page statement of interest; and a one-page artist bio or resume. A jury comprised of MidPen staff, a public art specialist, and Sunnyvale community members will score applicants based on relevant work experience, style, and ability to engage with the site and story. Two to three applicants will be interviewed. Eligibility requires local artists with a Bay Area connection and demonstrated experience working collaboratively on large-scale print projects with facility in digital technologies. The project timeline includes design work from August 25 to September 15, 2024, design review from September 16 to 30, 2024, design delivery by November 1, 2024, and installation in Fall 2025.