Request for Proposals: Outdoor Public Art Commemorative Bench

In partnership with the City of Frankfort, Josephine Sculpture Park is seeking to commission an original outdoor site-specific sculptural bench commemorating the historical location of racial terror lynchings in Frankfort, KY. The work of art will be permanently installed in downtown Frankfort at the north end of the Singing Bridge, a 125+ year old two-lane vehicle and pedestrian truss bridge that connects South Frankfort and Downtown Frankfort neighborhoods over the Kentucky River. The Singing Bridge is the historical site of at least two racial terror lynching victims in Franklin County: Marshall Boston in 1894 and John Maxey in 1909, both black men from the Frankfort community. A historical marker memorializing these victims will be installed in this location in 2022, and the bench will be installed in close proximity, creating a space for truth-telling and reflection about racial terrorism and its legacy.

The sculpture must be appropriate for the depth of the subject matter and suitable for a hands-on outdoor exhibition in a public space. It must be functional as a seat, capable of being anchored to prevent removal or damage, constructed of permanent and durable materials that are preferably maintenance-free, and able to withstand adverse weather conditions. The work should capture attention, engage the public, aesthetically enhance the surrounding area, and interact appropriately with its environment.

The purchase price for the sculpture is $15,000, which includes all costs related to the artist's design, supplies, materials, fabrication, site visit, transportation, and delivery. Installation, signage, and ongoing maintenance costs will be the responsibility of the City and Josephine Sculpture Park. Payment will be made in three installments: 30% when the contract is signed, 30% upon approval of the final design, and 40% within 30 days of receipt of the sculpture in Frankfort. The final design is due October 31, 2022, with installation scheduled for December 2022 through March 2023. Artists must submit a current CV/resume, artist statement (limited to 2000 characters), draft conceptual design, detailed design document with dimensions, weight, materials, and completion timeframe, 4-8 work samples of previously completed work, and three professional references. Up to 3 designs may be submitted. The project is open to all established and professional artists in the United States, age 18 and over, including artist teams.