Team Kentucky COVID-19 Memorial

The Commonwealth of Kentucky seeks to commission a Kentucky COVID-19 Memorial to be placed in the State Capitol Monument Park in Frankfort. The memorial will commemorate the losses and sacrifices Kentuckians experienced during the pandemic and remind future generations of the hardships endured and sacrifices made. The memorial is funded by the Team Kentucky COVID-19 Memorial Fund, supported by donations from private community members, corporations, and foundations.

The selection process occurs in two phases: Phase 1 is a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), and Phase 2 involves concept proposals from finalists selected through Phase 1. The memorial shall be an artwork and lasting memorial to those lost due to COVID-19; provide opportunities for reflection and remembrance; articulate themes of grief, resilience, unity, and hope; have a site-specific, equitable, and accessible design; be appropriate for the State Capitol Monument Park setting; be designed for low maintenance; and be in place by March 6, 2022. The project budget does not exceed $500,000 and is all-inclusive for artist fees, travel, materials, equipment, fabrication, insurance, engineer fees, permits, and installation. Finalists selected through the RFQ will be paid a stipend of $3,000 upon returning a completed proposal.

Eligibility: Professional artists over 18 with a U.S. Federal Tax ID or Social Security number. All artists and artist teams are eligible; Kentucky artists and residents are encouraged to apply. The Commonwealth does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran status, or physical ability. Phase 1 RFQ deadline is May 30, 2021. Required submissions include a letter of interest (2 pages maximum), current professional resume or CV (2 pages maximum), at least three professional references, and visual support materials consisting of 5-10 recent/relevant jpg images or videos with project descriptions including title, artist team, date, materials, location, commissioning agency, and budget. Submit through CaFE or email all required documents to Jessica Tyler at [email protected].