Storefronts: Installations 2013

Storefronts is a program designed to activate vacant storefront spaces in various neighborhoods by providing temporary space to artists, creative businesses, organizations and community groups. The program operates in five Seattle neighborhoods as well as Auburn, Bellevue, and Mount Vernon, Washington.

Installations are non-commercial exhibits in any medium, installed in a storefront and viewable from the street, generally through the storefront windows. There is no public access into the installation space, nor is there (generally) the possibility for the installation to continue to the exterior of the space. Original work and site-specific projects are encouraged, but existing work is also regularly presented. Installations may include video projections or other light elements, but successful proposals will engage passers-by both in daylight and in darkness. Installations are generally exhibited for 3 months.

Individual artists, arts groups, or arts businesses may apply. Arts groups are not required to have 501(c)3 status. If chosen, you will receive access to a vacant space in a participating neighborhood, an honorarium ranging from $250 to $1,000, no occupancy fee, and the program will pay all reasonable utilities costs and liability insurance. Selected participants must enter into an agreement with Shunpike regarding terms of use, be willing to de-install the piece if the property owner finds a permanent tenant, present high quality artwork and/or service activity, partner with Storefronts to market and promote events and activities, and comply with all federal, state, and local laws. Installations must be G-RATED as they are viewed by audiences of all ages.

Selection is based on artistic quality, innovation and engagement with the idea of empty retail space, capacity to accomplish the proposal, benefit to the community and appropriateness for the public realm, and high level of engagement with the street and passers-by. Proposals are reviewed by a panel of arts professionals, representatives of neighborhood groups, and commercial property owners. Applicants will be notified of acceptance or rejection by late April 2013. There is no application fee. Submit 1-6 images.