Parcel J Park Public Art Opportunity

The Orange County Public Art Review Board seeks one or more artist(s) or artists' team(s) to develop artwork for Parcel J Park, a new 16-acre public park in East Orange County. The park will feature a 100% fenced inclusive playground, three lighted multi-purpose fields for soccer, football and lacrosse, a concessions building, three large oak trees, parking, and sidewalks. Construction begins spring 2020 with opening scheduled for spring 2021.

The artwork should be exterior art that is easy to maintain and durable, with very low maintenance requirements and ability to withstand the elements. No electricity will be available to the artwork, and the park will be unmanned and unlit at night. Possibilities include functional art (kid friendly), free-standing sculpture, park benches, bike racks, fencing, art and images embedded in sidewalks, mosaic walkway, mosaic on concessions building, kinetic sculpture, and signage.

$33,500 has been approved for artwork. The selected artist(s) or team(s) will receive a comprehensive contract covering artwork design, fabrication, materials, installation, insurance, travel, public presentations, meetings with Orange County staff, 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 secure an experienced public artist to serve as a mentor. Several artists will be selected to provide proposals and will be paid a $500 stipend each. Submissions require a professional resume, letter of interest outlining approach, and a minimum of one image (maximum 12) of finished works or conceptual drawings. The selection panel will evaluate artistic excellence, professional experience, and compatibility with the architectural design, park environment, and county values. Timeline: Submittals due April 24, 2020; panel review April 28, 2020; finalists notified April 30, 2020; final proposals due June 11, 2020; artwork installation Fall/Winter 2020.