Neighborhood Arts Project - Year of Public Art

2017 is the Year of Public Art in Chicago. The theme, 50 x 50, seeks to celebrate and create new public art in all 50 wards. Mayor Rahm Emanuel has created a special program for Neighborhood Arts Projects. Aldermen may opt in by dedicating a portion of their 2017 menu allocation to commission public art for their ward. These menu funds will be matched up to $10,000 by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE).

An open call invites artists, artist teams, and arts organizations with a lead artist to submit qualifications. DCASE and representatives from Chicago's cultural community will review applications and create a pool of pre-qualified artists for Aldermen to choose from. Selected artists will work with DCASE, Aldermen, and residents to develop public artworks. Artists will be reviewed on artistic merit and professional qualifications, experience working with communities and diverse stakeholder groups, and ability to develop meaningful artwork within timeline and budget. Typical project budgets range from $10,000 - $20,000.

Submit up to 10 images of past work, an optional video (no more than 2 minutes), an annotated image list with title, media, year, dimensions, and price information, a 2-page resume or curriculum vitae for each artist, and a 1-page letter of interest. Arts organizations must also provide a programmatic activities list. Priority is given to projects on City-owned sites including vacant lots, facilities, and public right-of-way. Projects must be accessible and visible to the public, constructed of durable materials requiring minimal maintenance, and designed to contribute to cultural vibrancy for a minimum of 5 years. Application workshops are held January 23-25, 2017. Artist selection occurs in March 2017, proposal development April-June, project execution July-September, and community celebrations in Fall 2017.