NM DCA Coloring Book Illustrations - Request for Qualifications

The Art in Public Places Program of New Mexico Arts at the NM Department of Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the NM Museum of Natural History and Science, seeks up to 15 artists to create double page coloring book illustrations for the 2026 DCA Activity Book: Unearth A Story. The project aims to encourage arts and culture exploration by all ages through visual arts, science, archaeology, and paleontology. Selected artists will be commissioned to create a double page spread coloring book illustration depicting a different period in New Mexico from Devonian to Pleistocene and Present Day. Coloring book illustrations must be black and white and approximately 11" x 17" in size (template will be provided), landscape orientation. Additionally, the program seeks 1 artist to design the book cover (front and back, double page spread) and 1 artist/children's book illustrator to design the illustrated characters of Miss Stephanie and children.

Artists will be paid $2,000 per completed double page spread illustration. This amount includes all fees and expenses associated with the project, including materials, equipment, labor, taxes, and travel. The selection criteria include the qualifications of the artist as evidenced by supporting materials, proven ability to undertake projects of the described scope, artistic merit and superior caliber craftsmanship, and suitability of submission to project intent and scope. Selected artists will be required to enter into an artist agreement with the State of New Mexico.

Submissions must include an artist statement or letter of interest (no longer than 5,000 characters), helpful links to websites or social media, and up to ten images of previously completed artwork. When possible, submit images of artwork similar to the scope of this project (illustrations, sketches, line drawings, environments, illustrations of flora/fauna); otherwise, include images demonstrating your style, technique, and perspective. Complete image citations are required. This request for qualifications is open to all artists working in the United States, with preference given to artists living or working in New Mexico. Employees of the NM Department of Cultural Affairs and their family members are not eligible. The application deadline is November 20, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. MST. Questions should be directed to Meredith Doborski, Public Art Program Director, at 505-396-0326 or [email protected].