Small Scale Artwork Commission Program - Alameda County Juvenile Justice Center

Alameda County artists are invited to submit qualifications for the Small Scale Artwork Commission Program. This program will commission artists to produce a new series of artwork in the studio over a 6-month contract period. The artist's output will be acquired by the County and become part of the Alameda County Art Collection. Artists who make two-dimensional, low-relief, or wall sculptural artwork are invited to apply. The artwork will be installed at the Alameda County Juvenile Justice Center in San Leandro, CA. Artists at all levels of professional development are encouraged to apply.

Eligibility is open to practicing, professional visual artists who live, are permanently employed, or rent/own an artist's studio in Alameda County, CA. Artists must maintain residence, permanent employment, or business ownership within the County for the duration of the entire project. Ineligible artists include those who received previous commissions for the Juvenile Justice Center or Highland Hospital, artists under contract for the Castro Valley Library Public Art Program, artists who have received contracts of $30,000 or more from the Alameda County Arts Commission, and Alameda County employees.

The total budget is $110,000. Approximately 15 artists will be commissioned across three professional levels: Emerging artists (approximately 6) will receive $3,000-$5,000 each; Mid-career artists (approximately 5) will receive $5,000-$8,000 each; and Established artists (approximately 4) will receive $7,000-$11,000 each. Each artist will create a series of approximately 3-5 artworks. Commissioned artwork may range from 11" x 11" to no more than 50" x 50" and may be no more than 3" in depth, with a maximum weight of 25 lbs. The Arts Commission will manage framing and installation costs.

The selection process occurs in two phases. Phase 1: An artist selection panel will review submitted images and select up to 20 semi-finalists, who will receive a $100 honorarium to attend a project information meeting and create a conceptual proposal. Phase 2: The panel will interview semi-finalists and recommend approximately 15 artists for acceptance. All applicants will receive electronic notification of results. Selection criteria include artistic excellence and originality, appropriateness of medium and style to project goals, ability to respond creatively to community-related conditions, and adequate professional experience.