Request for Proposals: Outdoor Public Sculpture Frankfort, KY

In partnership with the City of Frankfort, Josephine Sculpture Park (JSP) is seeking to commission an original outdoor site-specific public artwork inspired by nature native to Kentucky. The work will be permanently installed in the Second Street Corridor, located between historic downtown Frankfort and the Capitol. This project is part of a multi-year public art initiative installing sculptures, murals, and sidewalk poetry in historic Frankfort to make it the "Public Art Capital of Kentucky."

The sculpture will be a permanent installation at the corner of Second Street and Bridge Street on a raised circular concrete pedestal that is 3 feet in diameter. The sculpture must fit on the 3-foot base, though some elements may extend beyond it, with a maximum height of 15 feet. It must be constructed of permanent, durable materials, preferably maintenance-free, and capable of withstanding adverse weather conditions. The sculpture must be anchored to prevent removal, tipping, breaking, or overturning. Artists are strongly encouraged to propose sculptures inspired by nature, including artwork relating to sustainability, recycling, environmental preservation, or plants and animals native to Kentucky, the Kentucky River, and river palisades. Artwork created using sustainable and recycled materials is encouraged if durability conditions are met.

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 are the responsibility of the City and JSP. 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. Submissions are due by May 30, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. Artists may submit up to 3 designs. Selected artists will be notified on June 20, 2022, with final design due July 8, 2022, and installation scheduled for October 2022. Applicants must be established or professional artists age 18 and over in the United States with experience creating, fabricating, and installing public art.