Orange County Fire Rescue Training Center – Public Art RFQ

Orange County Public Art Review Board seeks one or more artists or artist teams to develop artwork for the entrance of the Fire Rescue Training Center in Orlando, Florida. The facility is intentionally tucked behind tree lines, fencing, and a security gate. The Orange County Fire Rescue Training Center requires a 'statuesque but not ornate work of art' to serve as a landmark for the entrance. The art should be mission-focused, serving the citizens of Orange County in saving lives and property. Possibilities for public art include free-standing sculpture with artistic signage, decorative fencing or wall, free-standing sculpture, or artistic signage.

The installation site is a 20' x 25' area on the right side of the road as you enter. Entrance signage can be part of the proposal but is not required. Artist coordination with the developer is required. Installation and opening are scheduled for August 2024. A budget of $96,000 has been approved for artwork. The selected artist(s) or team(s) will be awarded a comprehensive contract. The artist will be responsible for artwork design, fabrication, materials, installation, insurance, travel, public presentations, meetings with Orange County staff as necessary, identification plaque, and all related incidental expenses.

This opportunity is open to professional artists working in any appropriate media. Student artists may apply if they can secure an experienced public artist to serve as a mentor. Application requirements include a professional resume (teams must submit resumes for each member), a letter of interest outlining interest in the project and a preliminary statement of approach, and a minimum of one image (maximum six). Images of finished works or conceptual drawings can be submitted. If images are not of a completed public art work, provide additional information to assure the Selection Panel of ability to realize a public art project. A selection panel consisting of the project manager, stakeholders, and art professionals will review artists' qualifications. Several artists will be selected to provide proposals and will be paid a stipend of $1,000 each. Final artist selection will take place after review of proposals. Artists will be evaluated on artistic excellence, professional experience, and compatibility with the architectural design, facility environment, and values of the county.