Rapid City Arts Council: Main Street Square Sculpture On-Site Commission

The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC), in partnership with Destination Rapid City (DRC), is requesting qualifications from sculptors interested in an on-site commission project at Main Street Square, downtown Rapid City's newest community development project. The sculpture project is designed to create a significant sculptural addition to the area's story, engage residents and visitors in the artistic process, and inspire audiences for years to come.

The project will make use of granite stones already in place on-site, arranged in symbolic reference to regional landscapes: a series of 10 stones along the Sixth Street side referencing the Black Hills, a series of 9 stones along the Main Street side referencing the Badlands, and two 35-foot spires at the corner of Sixth and Main referencing Rapid City's location between these two landscapes. One contract will be awarded for a sculptural series to be created using the available stones, with all sculptures to be completed within 3-5 years. The sculptures must be inspired by and contribute to an informative visual story of the Black Hills, Badlands, and Rapid City. Sculpting methods may include additive, subtractive, or other methods but must make use of the immovable shaped granite stones. A significant portion of sculpting must take place on-site in Rapid City with expected interaction between the artist(s) and visitors while protecting public safety. Studio space near Main Street Square may be made available to the selected artist or team.

The total budget for the selected sculptor is not to exceed $2,000,000, inclusive of all costs including artist's fee, housing, travel, materials, contracted services, and documentation. The artist is required to provide detailed maintenance instructions and recommendations. Five percent of the total award will be retained for one year after project completion to cover unanticipated repairs. Applicants must submit 10-20 images of work samples. Destination Rapid City will retain copyrights to the sculptures unless other arrangements are made with the selected artist.