Norman Forward 1% For Art: Reaves Park Project

Norman Arts Council on behalf of The City of Norman and Norman Forward Percent for Art is seeking an artist or team of artists to create a significant three-dimensional sculpture for Reaves Park located at 2501 Jenkins Avenue, Norman, Oklahoma. The project encompasses Phase 1 of the park renovation, covering approximately 45 acres within the total 78 acres of the park.

The artwork should be a monumental vertical sculpture centrally located on an axis with prominent site features. The designated area is approximately 80 feet long parallel to the park road and no further than 40 feet from the road to prevent conflict with future renovation phases. The sculpture should serve as a meeting place and landmark that appeals to the park's multi-generational users. The successful artwork should relate to Norman's history, the site's aviation heritage, and various park activities. It may be interactive—either subtly through changes in light and season, or through physical engagement. Functional works providing shade or utilitarian aspects are welcomed. The artwork must be durable, safe, low maintenance, vandalism resistant, child-friendly, and ADA compliant. Visibility during both day and night is essential, as the park hosts events year-round including ballgames (May through October), festivals, and community celebrations.

The total artist fee is $62,000, which must cover all costs including design, materials, fabrication, lighting, travel, insurance, shipping, and installation. Three finalists will be selected and invited to Norman for a mandatory site visit with a $600 allowance for transportation and expenses. Finalists will then submit site-specific design proposals including a scale model or computer-generated design, itemized budget, project timeline, project narrative, and maintenance plan. Selection will be based on merit of the artist's work, past experience completing projects on time and within budget, sensitivity to the site, and ability to collaborate with City of Norman Parks and Recreation Department and Norman Arts Council.