Prospectus #282 Large-Scale Purchase Initiative

The Art in Public Places program seeks to diversify New Mexico's public art collection through the Large-Scale Purchase Initiative. Since its inception in 1986, the program has placed more than 2,500 artworks in all of New Mexico's 33 counties. The objective is to purchase artwork from artists at all stages of their career in all media and genres suitable for both interior and exterior display. Artwork must be durable, permanent, low-maintenance, and in compliance with ADA guidelines upon installation.

Artwork will be purchased for publicly accessible buildings throughout New Mexico, including amphitheaters, animal shelters, community centers, courthouses, educational institutions, fire stations, healthcare facilities, recreation complexes, rest areas, and senior centers. Participating sites will have a total budget equal to 1% of recent capital outlay funds appropriated for new construction or major renovation projects. Existing artworks priced between $50,000-$200,000 with a minimum purchase price of $50,000 will be considered. All-inclusive pricing must include materials, labor, insurance, taxes, commissions, fees, site preparation, concrete footings, lighting, delivery, travel, installation, museum quality framing under Plexiglas, security-hangers, pedestals for 3-dimensional works, Plexiglas bonnets for small 3-dimensional works, project plaques, and professional photographic documentation.

A Submission Review Committee of artists and arts professionals will score applications based on demonstrated artist quality, developed and consistent style, perceived fit for permanent installation in a public building, and ability to produce and deliver high quality artwork. Regional Buying Committees made up of representatives from owner and user agencies will select artwork for purchase. Multiple artwork selection meetings will be held statewide on an ongoing basis from September 2025 through December 2027. Artists and galleries whose artwork is selected will enter into a purchase contract with the State of New Mexico. Payment will be made upon completion of contract terms and receipt of post-installation documentation. The overall acquisition process typically takes 2-6 months from notification of selection to payment. The project is open to artists residing in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah, and galleries located in these states.