Request for Qualifications: 2019 Lakeview Public Art Program

Friends of Lakeview and Special Service Area (SSA) 27 are accepting qualifications from artists and arts organizations interested in activating public spaces in West Lakeview with original works of art. Approximately 15 small- and large-scale murals are planned throughout West Lakeview in 2019, with a majority of projects planned for the Lakeview Low-Line—a half-mile space beneath the CTA 'L' tracks between Southport and Lincoln avenues.

This Request for Qualifications seeks information about artists practicing in any discipline, with a strong preference for visual artists who can create two-dimensional murals. All projects will take place within West Lakeview, bounded by Racine Avenue, Ravenswood Avenue, Diversey Parkway and Irving Park Road. The opportunity is open to local and international artists, with a strong preference for Chicago-based artists. Artists must be over 18 years old; students are eligible and welcome to apply. Artists with experience executing public works are strongly encouraged to apply, though all complete applications will be reviewed.

Submissions will be evaluated on context (how the artwork relates to the neighborhood and program goals), originality (unique perspective and approach), engagement (emotional impact and appeal to wide audiences), and quality (thoroughness and relevant experience with public art). The selection process includes five phases: prequalification review for completeness, committee review in March, site-specific concept development with stipends for selected artists, final selection in Spring 2019, and project execution beginning June 1, 2019. Selected artists will be compensated based on project size and scope. Artists not selected for 2019 may be considered for future opportunities. Work sample requirements: minimum 3 total samples, maximum 20 total (up to 20 images, 6 audio files, 6 video files). Application deadline: March 1, 2019 at 11:59 p.m. MST.