Lansing Michigan Roundabout Sculpture

The Arts Council of Greater Lansing and the Capital Region Community Foundation announce a request for qualifications/proposals (RFQP) for a new public art project. The project is a signature sculpture in partnership with the City of Lansing, to be installed in the roundabout at the intersection of Washington Square and Michigan Avenue in downtown Lansing, one block in front of the State Capitol. The RFQP is open on a national level to all professional sculptors, with preference given to artists who live or work in Ingham, Eaton and/or Clinton County.

The sculpture must be innovative and reflect the welcoming spirit of Lansing. It should exemplify strong, imaginative design and contribute to a visually stimulating environment. The sculpture must be created offsite and be no larger than 12 feet high x 12 feet in circumference, with dynamic views from 360 degrees. It may not cause vision obstruction for vehicle traffic (approximately 15,000 cars/day). The sculpture must be fabricated with no dangerous edges or protrusions, be inaccessible for climbing, and have a coating that protects it from graffiti vandalism. All materials must be durable and suitable for Michigan's variable climate. The artist will work closely with the Project Steering Committee and City of Lansing staff on site preparation, city codes, permitted placement, and installation methods.

The commission budget is $100,000 USD, all-inclusive of artist's fees, materials, design, engineering, basic concrete foundation, insurance, permits, fabrication, labor, recognition signage, shipping/storage, travel, and installation. Electrical needs and landscaping expenses will be addressed through the Community Foundation. Proposals must include resume/CV, visual documentation of similar large-scale sculptures, up to three preliminary sketches, artist's statement, estimated budget with itemization, landscaping solutions, and explanation of longevity and maintenance. No more than three finalists will be selected and invited to submit final renderings. Each finalist will receive a $1,000 honorarium. The selected artist will enter into an agreement with the City of Lansing for transfer of ownership and will be required to provide General Liability and other insurance as specified.