San Francisco Branch Library Improvement Project - Call for Artists

The San Francisco Arts Commission announces a call for professional artists working in a variety of media to apply for a new artist pool for four new San Francisco Public Library branches: Bayview/Anna E. Waden, Ortega, North Beach, and Visitacion Valley. This new Branch Library Improvement Program (BLIP) Artist Pool replaces the original artist pool established in 2002. Artists in the original pool must apply to this new Call for Artists to be considered for these four new branch library art opportunities. Artists who have already been selected from the original artist pool for six of the branch libraries are not eligible for the four new branch libraries.

The four new branch libraries are designed to be sustainable facilities with LEED silver certification and will provide a variety of unique art opportunities, varying from library to library, based on neighborhood context and architectural design. The Ortega branch library in the Sunset district will feature glass walls maximizing ocean views and a grove of Italian stone pines and cypresses. The Visitacion Valley branch library includes classical architecture with a central octagon and large arched windows. The North Beach branch library is new construction in Joe DiMaggio Playground. The Bayview/Anna E. Waden branch library location and design is in early stages. Art opportunities may include ceramic or mosaic tiles, glass, metal, ceramics, two-dimensional artwork, sculptures, wall reliefs, and mixed media. The artwork budget for each branch library is approximately $75,000, including artist fees, engineering design, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, permits, and insurance.

Eligibility is open to practicing, professional artists residing in the San Francisco Bay Area. Women, African American, Latino/Chicano, Native American, Asian/Pacific Islander, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Artists will be evaluated on artistic merit, appropriateness of medium and style, experience with similar projects, and ability to complete the work within the project timeline. A Selection Committee will recommend a pre-qualified artist pool, and separate Community Artist Selection Panels for each branch will select three finalists who will receive a $500 honorarium to prepare preliminary proposals. Each panel will recommend one artist to the Arts Commission for final selection. The selection process includes community participation, with proposal boards displayed in neighborhoods for public comment.