New Mexico Route 66 Commission Project - Call for Artists

The Art in Public Places Program of New Mexico Arts and the Local Selection Committee of the NM Department of Transportation seek to commission 1-2 artists or artist teams to create and install monumental exterior sculptures (site-specific artwork) for two designated outdoor areas at the eastbound and westbound Rattlesnake Draw Rest Areas along Interstate 40 near Moriarty, New Mexico. The project budget is $100,000 per installation site, which includes all fees and expenses associated with materials, equipment, labor, permits, engineering documents, insurance, taxes, travel, installation, shipping, identification plaque, and documentation.

Proposed artwork should celebrate the history of Route 66 and the spirit and history of movement and transportation in New Mexico over the last 100 years. Artwork may be abstract or figurative in style and any medium suitable for exterior installation, but must embody the Route 66 centennial theme and cannot contain violent, derogatory, or culturally insensitive elements. Artwork cannot incorporate water features or require electricity access unless self-sustaining (solar). Maximum dimensions are 15'H x 8'W x 8'L and must fit within the provided concrete base (8'w x 8'L x 1' tall, capable of supporting approximately 10,000 lbs). Materials must withstand permanent exterior installation with high sun and wind exposure, be non-flammable, and suitable for all weather conditions without rapid fading or deterioration. Artwork cannot contain sharp or pointy projecting objects within 6' of the base.

This is a Request for Qualifications only; do not submit artwork proposals at this time. Up to five finalists will be invited to submit formal proposals and will receive a $1,000 honorarium plus travel stipends ($500-$1,800 depending on distance). Finalists must attend an in-person presentation at the site. Selection criteria include professional qualifications, proven ability to undertake projects of described scope, artistic merit and craftsmanship, and suitability to project intent and site. The artist or team ultimately awarded the commission will be required to enter into a Professional Services Contract with the State of New Mexico. Project timeline: December 2024 application deadline, January 2025 finalist notification, April/May 2025 finalist presentations, May 2025 final selection notification.