Surfers Point Phase II: Public Art Tiled Sculpture(s) Project

APPLY ONLINE AT: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/2702/Surfers-Point-Project

QUALIFICATION TITLE: Surfers Point Phase II: Public Art Tiled Sculpture(s) Project
REQUESTING DEPARTMENT: Parks & Recreation, Arts & Culture Section
RELEASE DATE: Monday, February 2, 2026
DUE DATE: Monday, March 2, 2026
Notice is hereby given that electronic qualifications will be received by Ventura Parks & Recreation Department until the deadline listed above. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Please read carefully and submit early to avoid technical issues.

INTRODUCTION
The City of Ventura (“City”) Parks & Recreation Department invites professional artists or artist teams to submit proposals for the creation of a permanent tiled sculpture or sculptural installation as part of Phase II of the Surfers Point Improvement Project. This major coastal improvement effort unites environmental restoration, public access, and cultural enrichment at one of Ventura’s most iconic shoreline destinations.

This Request for Proposals (RFP) is issued due to project funding and scheduling requirements and replaces a previously anticipated Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process. As part of this RFP, artists are asked to submit a preliminary concept proposal and a preliminary budget estimate. These materials are intended to be conceptual and exploratory in nature and are not expected to be fully developed at this stage.

The selected public artwork will serve as a signature feature of the site, welcoming visitors, celebrating Ventura’s surf and beach culture, and honoring the natural marine environment. By integrating durable and visually striking tiled sculpture(s) into the project design, the City seeks to highlight the deep cultural and ecological connections that define Surfers Point while creating a work of art that resonates with both the local community and visitors from around the world.

Following initial review, two to three (2–3) artists or artist teams may be shortlisted and invited to participate in a paid finalist proposal phase. Each shortlisted artist or artist team will receive a stipend of $3,000 to develop a refined concept proposal and a detailed budget for final review and recommendation by a panel of community stakeholders. One artist or artist team will be selected and awarded a contract to complete the project.

The total budget for the public art project is $165,000. This amount is all inclusive and must cover all costs associated with the design, fabrication, transportation, and installation of the artwork.

PROJECT BACKGROUND
Surfers Point is one of Ventura’s most beloved and iconic coastal destinations. It is a major recreational site for surfing, swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, and beachgoing, attracting locals and visitors alike. The point is internationally recognized as a world-class surf break and has long been a gathering place for the community, symbolizing Ventura’s deep connection to the ocean and shoreline.

Phase I of the Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project was completed in 2013 and earned national and international recognition, including the Robert L. Wiegel Coastal Project Award, for its innovative approach to shoreline protection. The project relocated infrastructure away from the eroding coastline and reconstructed the shoreline with restored dunes and natural buffers. Phase II, funded by a $16.2 million grant from the California State Coastal Conservancy, continues this work by removing damaged infrastructure and further restoring the shoreline.

The project will:
• Reconstruct dunes with native plantings and a buried cobble berm for long-term protection.
• Construct a new multi-use path for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Add a parking lot with an attendant station and electric vehicle parking.
• Improve safety with new lighting and drainage infrastructure.
• Enhance landscaping and public amenities.
• Integrate a major public art component that will celebrate the cultural and environmental significance of the site.

This project embodies Ventura’s dual priorities: protecting the coastline while enriching cultural
and recreational life. The Surfers Point improvements will not only safeguard infrastructure and
coastal access but also establish the site as a model for integrating resilience, recreation, and art.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The project’s theme and color palette were shaped by community input gathered through a series of public workshops and surveys:

• February 13, 2024: Stakeholder Meeting – Ventura City Hall
• March 20, 2024: Stakeholder Meeting – Ventura City Hall
• May 2, 2024: Public Meeting – Ventura County Fairgrounds
• June 10, 2024: Ventura River Watershed Tour with local Chumash Representative
• July 30, 2024: Stakeholder Meeting - Ventura City Hall
• July 4, 2025: Public Art Community Survey – Fourth of July Parade at Downtown Ventura
• July 17, 2025: Public Art Community Survey – Barranca Vista and Westpark Community Center Youth Camps
• July 18, 2025: Public Art Community Survey - Ventura Avenue Adult Center and Camp Ventura
• July 19, 2025: Public Art Community Survey – Music Under the Stars Concert Series at Olivas Adobe Historical Park
• July 3 – July 27, 2025: Online Public Art Community Survey

Results favored integrating a Marine Life and Surf & Beach Culture theme, expressed through a natural coastal color palette, for a public art piece that complements the surrounding environment and recent improvements.

PUBLIC ART SPECIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
Public art is envisioned as an integral element of Surfers Point Phase II Improvement Project. The Surfers Point Phase II: Public Art Tiled Sculpture(s) Project will create a signature visual feature that connects the community’s surfing and beach culture with the natural marine environment.

Sculpture Type and Material Specifications:
• Proposals must present original artwork created specifically for this project. Artwork previously fabricated, installed, exhibited, or submitted to other public art projects will not be accepted.
• This public art project is limited to tiled free-standing sculpture(s), designed as either one large scale piece or a multi-part installation.
• Given the coastal location and associated environmental conditions, at least 90% of the sculpture’s exterior surface must consist of tile and/or grout. Any remaining exposed materials must be highly durable, suitable for long-term outdoor coastal exposure, and subject to review and approval by City staff during the design refinement phase.
• Structural foundation supporting artwork shall be reviewed and designed by a Civil or Structural Engineer licensed in the State of California.

Location & Scale:
• The artwork must be installed within the designated area of the new pedestrian walkway at the beginning of the improvement project zone (see Figures 2a, 2b & 2c for reference).
• The designated project space measures approximately 25 feet by 25 feet. The scale of the public art installation must remain within these dimensions.
• The maximum allowable height of the sculpture(s), including the base, must not exceed 12 feet from ground to top of sculpture.
• Artist(s) is responsible for utility locating activities, including selective excavation to expose existing irrigation lines and relocating them as required prior to artwork installation. All irrigation relocation work shall be coordinated with and approved by City staff prior to implementation.
• Maximum weight: 1 ton (2,000 lbs.), including base or support rod.

Theme & Palette:
• Based on community surveys and workshops conducted in 2024–2025 (see dates and locations under Community Engagement), the project theme has been identified as Marine Life and Surf & Beach Culture.
• The artwork should serve as a cultural and ecological narrative, visually connecting visitors to the coastal marine life, beach and surf culture.
• The color palette will be drawn from natural coastal tones including sea blues, sandy neutrals, kelp greens, and sun washed hues, to reflect Ventura’s coastal landscape (See

Artistic Goal:
• To create a tiled free-standing sculpture(s) that celebrates Ventura’s beach and surfing identity, as well as the rich marine ecosystem of the Santa Barbara Channel.
• Ensure the work is durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to environmental conditions: sea spray, sand abrasion, UV exposure, and heavy public use.
• Must complement environmental surroundings and be integrated seamlessly into the overall Phase II improvements.

The selected artist or artist team will collaborate with City staff, project engineers, and stakeholders to develop a final design that reflects these themes while meeting the technical requirements of the site. This project is expected to become one of Ventura’s most visible and celebrated public artworks, reinforcing Surfers Point as a place where art, environment, and community converge.

BUDGET
The total budget for this public art project is $165,000. This amount is all inclusive and must cover all costs associated with the design, fabrication, transportation, and installation of the artwork.

The budget includes, but is not limited to: artist fee; concept and design development; materials; fabrication; transportation and delivery; installation; structural supports and footings if part of the artist’s scope; insurance; permits; taxes; subcontractor costs; site preparation if applicable; documentation; protective coatings and sealants; travel and lodging if applicable; and a minimum one year warranty and maintenance plan following installation.

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
The selected artist or artist team must carry insurance as required by the City of Ventura. Coverage includes, but is not limited to, general liability, automobile liability, and workers’ compensation (if applicable). See Attachment A: Required Insurance for full insurance requirements.

ELIGIBILITY
This opportunity is open to professional artists and artist teams residing and working in the State of California. Special consideration will be given to artists or artist teams based in Ventura County and Santa Barbara County.

Applicants must demonstrate proven experience with large-scale, durable public art projects and the ability to design, fabricate, and install work suitable for long term outdoor display in a coastal environment. Applicants must be 18 years or older and legally authorized to work in the United
States.

The City of Ventura does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Applications must be submitted electronically through the City’s designated portal.

Required Materials:
• Letter of Interest (1–2 pages, PDF)
Describe your artistic approach, relevant experience, and interest in this project.
• Resume or CV (2–3 pages, PDF)
Highlight relevant public art and large-scale project experience.
• Portfolio (5–8 examples, JPEG or PDF)
Include a caption sheet listing title, year, materials, dimensions, location, client (optional), and budget.
• Preliminary Concept Proposal (PDF)
The preliminary concept proposal is intended to be preliminary in nature and is not expected to be fully developed at this stage. The purpose of this submission is to demonstrate artistic intent, conceptual direction, and feasibility within the project parameters. Submissions may include sketches, renderings, diagrams, or reference imagery, accompanied by a brief narrative describing the proposed concept, approximate scale, materials, and relationship to the site. Engineered drawings, final material sourcing, and construction documents are not required at this stage.
• Preliminary Budget Estimate (PDF)
Artists must submit a rough, preliminary budget estimate demonstrating how the total project budget of $165,000 may be allocated. Line-item precision is not required at this stage. However, budgets must identify major cost categories, including a clearly identified artist fee.
Shortlisted artists will be required to submit a refined and detailed budget as part of the paid finalist proposal phase.
• Professional References (3–5 total)

File Format Guideline:
File names must follow this format: Lastname_Firstname_DocumentType.pdf

All materials are due by Monday, March 2, 2026
Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.

SELECTION CRITERIA
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
• Completeness and clarity of application materials, including adherence to submission requirements.
• Artistic merit and quality of past work, including concept, craftsmanship, clarity of theme, and overall design excellence.
• Strength, clarity, and relevance of the preliminary concept proposal, including alignment with the project theme, site context, and community values.
• Demonstrated understanding of the site, project goals, and community context, including integration with the Surfers Point Phase II improvements.
• Feasibility of the proposed artistic approach within the project scope and all-inclusive budget, including technical considerations, materials, and installation approach.
• Experience with durable materials and fabrication methods appropriate for long term outdoor display in a coastal environment.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS IF SELECTED
Following initial review, two to three (2–3) artists or artist teams may be shortlisted and invited to participate in a paid finalist proposal phase. Each shortlisted artist or artist team will receive a stipend of $3,000 to support proposal development.

Shortlisted finalists will be required to:
• Develop a refined concept design proposal for final review.
• Participate in a site visit and meetings with City staff and stakeholders, as required.
• Submit a detailed and itemized budget aligned with the all-inclusive project budget.
• Submit a final design package for review and approval by the City’s Arts & Culture Commission.
• Present the final design at agendized Arts & Culture Commission meeting (date to be determined).
• Provide a narrative proposal, including:
o Artwork title
o Concept and inspiration
o Color palette and material selections
o Maintenance plan
o Provide a detailed fabrication and installation schedule, including anticipated work hours per day, number of days on site, interim drying or cure time, and final completion

Final Selected Artist
• Submitting a list of assistants with names and contact info if used in this project.
• Provide insurance coverage as set by City’s Risk Management. Requirements: See Attachment A – Required Insurance for full insurance requirements.
• Agree to photographic/filming documentation of the design and installation for publicity and archival purposes.
• Artist(s) must be available for interviews, meetings, and events related to the public art
project, including opening ceremony.
• Submit three conceptual studies (sketches, drawings, construction documents, etc.) to City for documentation archive.
• Receive City approval for all artwork materials (must be durable, safe, and resistant to long-term outdoor exposure, vandalism, and UV degradation). Example: High-quality primers, sealers, exterior-grade mosaic materials. Note: City requires medium appropriate UV-protective and anti-graffiti coating for all public art projects.

SELECTION PROCESS
Applications will be reviewed by a panel consisting of:
• City of Ventura Parks & Recreation staff
• Arts & Culture Commission members
• Community stakeholders and partners (e.g., Ventura community and coastal representatives)
Arts & Culture Commission will make a final artist(s) selection from the top three finalists.

IMPORTANT DATES
• RFP Issued: Monday, February 2, 2026
• RFP Deadline: Monday, March 2, 2026, by 12:00 p.m. NOON
• Panel Review: Mid-to-late March
• Selected Artists for 2nd Round Notification: April 7, 2026
• Selected Artists Finalized Design Concept & Budget Deadline: April 27, 2026, by 12:00 p.m. NOON
• Arts & Culture Commission Meeting & Artist Selection: May 14, 2026
• Selected Artist(s) notified: May 15, 2026
• Artist Contract and Documentation Deadline: May 22, 2026
• Fabrication and Installation Deadline: Late June-Early August
• Final Inspection and Documentation: Mid-August

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
Apply directly through application portal on City Website - Call to Artists: Surfers Point Phase II Public Art Tiled Sculpture(s).
Deadline: Monday, March 2, 2026, by 12:00 p.m. (NOON) PST
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Submit early to avoid technical difficulties.

Q&A APPLICATION WORKSHOPS - OPTIONAL
Two optional question and answer workshops will be offered to assist applicants with additional questions regarding the application process. The Parks and Recreation Department will host one in-person workshop and one online workshop. Advance registration is required for both sessions.
To make your reservation contact Stephanie Jacinto at [email protected].

In Person Workshop (reservations suggested, walk-ins OK)
Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Zoom Workshop (reservation required)
Monday, February 23, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.

CONTACT

For questions about the public art project, contact:
Elena Waller
Recreation Supervisor
City of Ventura
[email protected] | 805-658-4720

Stephanie Jacinto
Recreation Coordinator
City of Ventura
[email protected] | 805-658-4724

APPLY ONLINE AT: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/2702/Surfers-Point-Project