P.K. Yonge Public Art Commission

The University of Florida Art in State Buildings Program is seeking artists for a site-specific public art commission at P.K. Yonge Developmental School's new 6th-12th grade building. The art budget is $65,000 for a permanent installation.

The designated public art space, called the Gathering Space, is located at the school entrance and will serve as a morning/afternoon student gathering area. The space is approximately 5,000 sq. ft., south-facing concrete slab where an estimated 800-900 students will gather daily. The site is adjacent to Tumblin Creek and nestled under large, old oak trees. Functionality may be addressed through the art, such as benches, shade structures, rain cover, charging stations, solar panels, or other appropriate designs for outdoor spaces. Student participation is desired if appropriate. All media and designs suitable for outdoor spaces will be considered.

Eligibility requires that artists have met at least two of the following criteria: completed public commissions with similar budgets; works in major public, private, corporate, or museum collections; received awards, grants, or fellowships; or had a one-person exhibition in a museum within the past five years. Applicants must submit a statement of intent (one page or less), current professional resume or CV, and up to 20 digital images (with the first five used in blind review). Up to 6 video or audio files may be submitted. Up to 3 finalists will receive $1,000 to visit the site and create and present a site-specific proposal. Finalist notification is May 2020, with site visits in late June or late July 2020, proposals due August or September 2020, and building opening January 2021.