New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources Public Art Commission

The Art in Public Places Program of New Mexico Arts and the Local Selection Committee seek an artist or artist team to create a site-specific commission project for the atrium entrance of the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources main building in Socorro. Large hanging mobile and multi-dimensional projects that encompass the space, walls included, are encouraged, especially those responding to the geologic and mineral complexities of New Mexico and the work done at the bureau. The artwork should engage and educate the public about the bureau's work in research, geological state mapping, public education, and the maintenance of geological data. The artwork should be lightweight yet sturdy, emphasize the atrium as a passageway, and be inspired by geology and the functions within the Bureau of Geology.

Media must be durable, low maintenance, permanent, safe for both children and adults, and ADA compliant. At the selected artist's expense, the artwork may require certification by an electrical, civil, and/or structural engineer licensed in New Mexico and review by a professional fine art conservator. This request is open to all artists or artist teams working in the United States. Current employees or family members of current employees of the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources and New Mexico Institute of Technology are not eligible. Past employees may submit but cannot become employed by these institutions during the project duration.

The project budget is $120,000, which includes all fees and expenses associated with the project such as materials, equipment, labor, permits, engineering documents, insurance, taxes, travel, installation, shipping, identification plaque, and documentation. Up to five finalists will be invited to submit a formal proposal and will receive a $1,000 honorarium plus a travel stipend based on distance ($250 for 50-300 miles one-way, $450 for 301-800 miles one-way, $900 for 801+ miles one-way). Finalists must attend one site visit including a personal presentation to the Local Selection Committee and a public presentation. Submissions must include a letter of interest (no longer than 3 paragraphs), a current chronological resume or curriculum vitae, and up to ten images or videos of previously completed work.