Public Art Commission: Sunset Park, Petoskey, Michigan

The City of Petoskey is seeking submissions from individual artists or teams in the Great Lakes Region (Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, New York, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Ontario) for a public artwork for Sunset Park, located on the shores of Little Traverse Bay in Petoskey, Michigan. The park features spectacular views of the sunset and is enjoyed by local and seasonal residents and tourists.

Interested artists and teams must submit a portfolio of 9-12 images illustrating 3 or more completed and installed public works, photographed in situ, along with a list of completed public art projects including title, specific location, and overall budget with links to online sources. All materials must be submitted as a single PDF document via the CaFÉ website. Optional video links may be included. Artists must demonstrate significant experience designing, fabricating, and installing public art works and must be at least 18 years old and residents of the Great Lakes Region.

The Public Art Commission will select three finalists to submit site-specific proposals (RFPs) including conceptual drawings, working drawings, and details regarding dimensions, materials, fabrication methods, insurance, installation, and maintenance projections. One artist will be awarded the contract with a budget of $35,000-$55,000. The other two finalists will each receive a $500 honorarium. The winning design must engage the spirit of the site, be safe for public interaction, enhance visitors' experiences in all seasons, and not obstruct the spectacular view. The scope includes conceptualization, design, renderings, plans, materials, fabrication, transportation, assembly, installation, and maintenance projections. The City of Petoskey will provide concrete bases and lighting and/or prepare the landscape as needed. Submission deadline: January 5, 2025. Three finalists selected: January 14, 2025. Final proposals due: February 16, 2025. Award winner selected: February 25, 2025. Installation: June 15-24, 2025. Celebration event: Early July 2025.