Pioneer Park Public Art Commission

The Salt Lake City Arts Council's Public Art Program seeks to commission an artist or artist-led team to create an original, site-specific public artwork for historic Pioneer Park. The selected artist's artwork and concepts will be integrated into overall park improvements in collaboration with landscape architects, community stakeholder groups, and City representatives.

Pioneer Park, established in 1847, is one of Salt Lake City's oldest and most continuously used public spaces, occupying an entire city block in downtown Salt Lake City. The park holds historical significance reflecting diverse influences from Indigenous Peoples, Mormon Pioneers, immigrants, and subsequent residents. Phase 1 improvements, funded by $3.44 million in impact fees and $10 million from a Sales Tax Bond, will enhance the northern end of the park with a new playground, plaza, pavilion, ranger station, shade lawn, mist fountain, and native plantings. Four areas have been identified as suitable locations for artwork: near the proposed playground, at the north or north-east entrance, or on or within the misting fountain footprint. Artists may propose alternative locations within Phase 1 area, subject to feasibility review by the project design team.

The commissioned artwork should be site-specific, harmonizing with the park's amenities while inviting visitors to engage with the park's multiple, layered histories and diverse narratives. The artwork should be inclusive and accessible for individuals of all abilities, incomes, ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds; respond to the park's unique history; incorporate sustainable concepts and materials; and meet all public safety, structural, and maintenance standards including ADA compliance. The total commission budget is $140,000 USD, inclusive of all costs including design fees, consultation, insurance, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and contingency. Work sample requirements: 5-10 images and 0-2 videos (5-10 total samples minimum). Eligibility is national. Virtual info session: Monday, August 26, 2024 at 12pm MT (attendance encouraged but not required). Finalist notification: Early October 2024. Required finalist meeting: Monday, October 14, 2024 at 2pm MT. Finalist proposals due: January 2, 2025 by 5:00pm MT. Finalist proposal presentation: Wednesday, January 8, 2025, 5-7pm MT. Park construction and artwork installation: Summer 2025 – Summer 2026.