Siuslaw Bridge Steps Art Installation

The City of Florence and the City's Public Art Committee are seeking artists for the Siuslaw Bridge Steps Art Installation Project, an outdoor public art project designed to beautify and enhance the park-like hill and pedestrian steps leading from Old Town Florence up to the historic Siuslaw Bridge. The vision is to install artwork on the steps, utilizing them as a canvas while incorporating the railings, lighting, and natural incline of the landscape. The goal is to bring this area to life with eye-catching and interactive art while maintaining the functionality and safety of the steps for everyday pedestrian use. The PAC is looking for imaginative designs that include the possibility of community participation at some stage of the installation process. Design ideas that utilize a variety of media are encouraged.

Designs must take into account pedestrian use and all City of Florence Safety Codes. Designs should include use of both the risers and step surface as well as sidewalls, banisters, landscaping, and lighting. Art should be visible from a distance and engaging from multiple angles and perspectives. Artists should consider the longevity and maintenance of their designs as this is a long-term installation in an outdoor location close to the Siuslaw River and exposed to the elements. Designs must not include any breach of intellectual property, trademarks, religious references, symbols, political or copyrighted material. Selected artists must be willing to work with the PAC to adjust design if necessary. No element of the design can be tall enough to be viewed by motorists traveling on Highway 101 above the top of the hill.

All artists over 18 years old are eligible. Entries must be original designs and artwork suitable for viewing by all ages. The entry fee is $25.00. Work sample requirements: 2-6 images, 0-6 audio files, 0-4 video files, with a minimum of 2 total samples and maximum of 6. Artists must submit a design using the provided template. The overall budget for this project is $30,000, which includes concept, design, materials, installation, and any necessary insurance. The selected artist will receive an honorarium and materials fee. The application deadline is January 15, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. MST. The selected artist is expected to participate in an unveiling/opening celebration at the completion of the project and furnish the city with a comprehensive plan for long-term maintenance of their artwork.