San Pablo Avenue Roundabout Public Art Competition

The City of Palm Desert, California, and the Palm Desert Art in Public Places Commission announce a public art competition open to experienced artists residing in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. The competition is open to international artists.

The sculpture(s) will be installed in a roundabout on San Pablo Avenue, which serves as a transition from the commercial area into the residential area. The roundabout is located perpendicular to and north of Highway 111, connecting vibrant commercial areas with residential neighborhoods, College of the Desert, Palm Desert City Hall, and the Civic Center Park. The unpaved portion of the roundabout is 45' diameter with a 32.8' diameter workable space. Height requirements for singular sculptures may not exceed 25' centered in the roundabout. For multiple sculptures, height may not exceed 15' due to breakaway zone. Illuminated artworks and multiple sculptures are acceptable; sculptures with water features will not be accepted. The site is on a 1.5% upward slope running north to south, and foundations cannot be installed in some areas due to underground utilities.

The project budget is $125,000. The selected artist or artist team will be responsible for design, fabrication, shipment to site, and must work with City staff on installation. The available budget must cover all artists' expenses including artist fees, taxes, insurance, materials, tools, travel, expense contingency, and other associated costs. Installation, uplighting costs, and permit fees will be covered by the City. Artwork must be fabricated in durable, permanent, outdoor media that is safe, easily maintained, and proven viable in public installations. The artwork must withstand harsh desert weather conditions including intense sun, summer temperatures above 110° Fahrenheit, and high winds. Illumination of light-based sculptures must not intrude on neighboring homes with a maximum illuminance of 20 watts. The artwork must not create a disorienting situation or cause distraction for drivers, must allow visibility to oncoming traffic and pedestrians, and should be designed "in the round" and equally intriguing from all angles. Interactive artwork is discouraged and sculptures must not create desire for pedestrian activity. Connections between sculpture and foundation must be breakaway in case of errant vehicles.

The Art in Public Places Commission will select up to three finalists. All finalists must develop additional presentation materials and a maquette no higher than two feet. Oral presentations will be scheduled in person or via Zoom. The City will reimburse artists for maquette creation costs up to $500 with receipts provided. Selection criteria include artistic merit, quality and innovative design; appropriateness to site in size and materials; meeting all Call requirements; and safety approval by the City's Public Works Department. The Art in Public Places Commission will make a recommendation to the Palm Desert City Council, which will make the final selection. Applicants must submit 5-15 images. The entry deadline is 3/15/21 at 11:59 p.m. MDT.