RFQ for Public Art: City of Davis F Street Wall

The City of Davis Arts & Cultural Affairs Program is seeking an artist or artist team to create a public art piece for a large-curved retaining wall at the corner of F and Covell Streets. This project is the final phase of a transportation improvement project that includes a new multi-use path, ADA access, retaining walls, and lighting design. The entire wall extends 288 feet and ranges in height from approximately 2.5-9.5 feet. The artwork does not need to cover the entire wall and should be focused toward the corner curve. The selected artist will demonstrate quality and originality, with a style that beautifully enhances the newly improved corner and public space.

Artwork may include lighting elements that connect to existing retaining wall electrical system (stub outs every 50 ft.), and additional components may be included on adjacent areas within the project that complement the primary location. Only durable materials may be used. Design may not include copyrighted or trademarked images and must be an original creation. Artists are responsible for protecting their work from the elements and possible vandalism. All appropriate ADA requirements for protruding objects must be met. Sample artistic themes might include honoring the history of the land, indigenous people and traditions, the historic Hunt's Tomato Cannery, community, arts and culture, education, environmental conservation, agriculture, native wildlife and plants, railroad, or youth sports/baseball/parks.

Eligibility is open to all Davis and regional Northern California artists, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, military status, sexual orientation, marital status, or physical or mental ability. Artist teams are eligible, including teams of artists from multiple disciplines. Artists must be 18 years of age, able to provide insurance, and able to provide a U.S. mailing address on W9. Application requirements include: artist resume (up to four pages), portfolio images (up to 10 color images), a letter of intent explaining interest in the project and relevant qualifications, and professional references (names and phone numbers of up to three individuals who have worked with you recently on large-scale pieces). One artist or artist team will be selected based on experience working with design teams, past work that exhibits style and materials appropriate to the project, and a strong letter of intent. Previous experience with public or private commissions is desirable. Finalists will be invited to present their proposals and answer questions. The tentative timeline includes: January 28, 2022 deadline for response; February 2022 finalist selection and committee interviews; March 2022 Arts Commission review; April 2022 City Council action and contract award; Fall 2022 artist completes artwork and installation. Submissions will stay on file as part of a new initiative to create a pool of pre-qualified artists for future projects. Budget: $35,000.