The College of New Jersey STEM Building Outdoor Classroom

The College of New Jersey is requesting qualifications from artists for the creation of an outdoor artwork that will serve as a focal point within the newly constructed STEM building complex and as an outdoor classroom and gathering space for students and the college community. The space and/or structure of the artwork should be able to accommodate a group of up to 24 students and faculty.

The identified location for the functional art/outdoor classroom is within the green space enclosed by the new STEM Building, the Forum, and the existing Biology Building. This informal green space will have a gentle slope down to the campus loop road, Metzger Drive, and views of Ceva Lake to the North. There are significant underground utilities below much of the green space, with an area of approximately 25 feet by 30 feet available for the art/classroom at the North end. There is an approximately 18 inch elevation change within that area. Power (electrical or solar), seating, and possibly a blackboard will be desired for the classroom and other gatherings.

The budget for this project is $180,000 all inclusive (design, fabrication, engineering, transportation, permitting, installation, insurance, documentation, and any other costs required to complete the arts inclusion project). Three finalists each will receive $2,000 to help cover travel and interview preparation expenses. Shortlisted candidates (10) will have approximately 5 weeks to prepare a concept to be submitted for committee review. Finalists (3) will have approximately 4 weeks to prepare for an on-campus interview which must include a PowerPoint presentation, samples of materials, timeline and budget. Artists should submit 6 images of recent public art commissions with budget, contacts and a resume of commissioned public art work with their application. Minimum 4 images, maximum 6 images required.