Miners Memorial Commission at New Mexico Tech

The Art in Public Places Program of New Mexico Arts and the Local Selection Committee of New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology seek to commission an artist or artist team to create and install a memorial artwork dedicated to miners and the history of mining on the NMT campus. The memorial should recognize and respond to Socorro County's mining history, the institute's contribution to the mining industry, and pay homage to those whose pioneering work has shaped the region. Three potential sites have been identified on campus; artists will select the site they are most interested in responding to when submitting qualifications.

The Local Selection Committee will consider work ranging from figurative and representational to non-objective, abstract, or architectural in nature. Artwork media and construction can be traditional, mixed, or experimental, but must be constructed from materials that will survive permanent outdoor installation in Central New Mexico's climate with high public traffic and regular exposure to sunlight, wind, and rain. The Art in Public Places program does not fund memorials to specific individuals by name or likeness. Figurative or representational sculptures will be considered only without identification with actual persons. No artworks incorporating water features or elements will be considered. The resulting memorial must be durable, low maintenance, permanent, safe for children and adults, and meet all applicable code requirements including ADA compliance.

The project budget ranges from $210,500 to $420,000 and includes all fees and expenses: materials, equipment, labor, permits, engineering documents, insurance, taxes, travel, installation, shipping, identification plaque, and documentation. Up to five finalists will be invited to submit formal proposals and receive a $1,000 honorarium for a written proposal, presentation, maquette, and/or digital rendering. Finalists will also receive a travel stipend based on distance: $250 for 50-300 miles one-way, $450 for 301-800 miles one-way, and $900 for 801+ miles one-way. One site visit is required for each finalist, including an in-person presentation to the Local Selection Committee and a public presentation at the site. Submission deadline: May 1, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. Finalists will be announced May 15. Finalist presentations are scheduled for August (date TBD).