New Mexico Only Purchase Initiative

The Art in Public Places program enriches New Mexico's public spaces through an innovative and diverse public art collection. Since its inception nearly 25 years ago, the program has placed more than 2,500 works of art in all of New Mexico's 33 counties. The objective of the New Mexico Only Purchase Initiative is to diversify the state's public art collection by purchasing artwork from artists in all stages of their careers. All media in all genres, suitable for both interior and exterior display, will be considered for purchase. Artwork must be durable, permanent, low-maintenance and in compliance with ADA guidelines upon installation.

The project is open to artists who reside in New Mexico and galleries located in New Mexico. Galleries may submit qualifications on behalf of any artist represented by the gallery, regardless of the artist's residency. Artwork will be purchased for publicly accessible buildings throughout the State of New Mexico, including amphitheaters, animal shelters, community centers, courthouses, educational institutions, fire stations, healthcare facilities, recreation complexes, rest areas, and senior centers. Purchase contracts range from $1,000 - $20,000, all inclusive of materials, labor, insurance, taxes, commissions, fees, delivery, installation, travel, museum quality framing, security-hangers, pedestals, project plaques, and documentation. Participating sites have a predetermined 1% budget so price fluctuations will not be allowed after the submission deadline.

Submissions must include a succinct artist's statement (2000 character limit), a current resume or curriculum vitae, and three images of previously completed work created in the past ten years that is currently available for purchase. Complete image citations must include title, media, dimensions, price, year of completion, description, and if applicable, edition size and print/casting number. A Submission Review Committee of artists and arts professionals will score applications, and Regional Buying Committees will select artwork for purchase. Artwork included in the final pool is not a guarantee of sale. If a submitted piece is sold through another venue, the artist or artist's representative must notify New Mexico Arts immediately. Artists/galleries whose work is selected will be required to enter into a purchase contract with the State of New Mexico. Payment will be made upon completion of contract terms and a site visit verification. Project timeline: July 2010 - project announced; August 26, 2010 - submission deadline; October 2010 - notification of finalists; November 2010 - June 2011 - notification of purchases; January 2011 - February 2012 - artwork installed.