T.I.M.E. Public Art Engagement Project - Hobbs, New Mexico

New Mexico Arts and the Hobbs Local Selection Committee seek to commission one or more temporary public art projects inspired by the community's goals to activate public spaces, contribute to placemaking, and engage community members and visitors. Individual artists and artist teams are encouraged to apply. Proposals should consider one or both locations in Hobbs: a segment of the Lovington Highway Health Walk Trail and/or the Lea County Center for the Arts in downtown Hobbs.

The strongest proposals will engage the temporary nature of the project and consider the cultural and local histories of the area, with a strong community engagement component that provides genuine enrichment for the host community. Site-specific works are encouraged. Artwork should appeal to both local residents and visitors. No artwork requiring concrete pads or other environmentally damaging approaches will be considered. Media must be low maintenance, safe for both children and adults, ADA compliant, and not leave a permanent mark on the environment when removed. Artwork must be sufficiently secured against high winds (which can reach 60-80 mph in Hobbs) and intense weather conditions. Artists understand their artwork may be subject to damage, vandalism, or theft due to the temporary nature and outdoor setting, and New Mexico Arts and participating sites will not be responsible for such occurrences.

New Mexico Arts has allocated $10,000 to the project. Submissions must include budgets ranging from $3,000-$10,000 and must cover all applicable expenses including materials, labor, insurance, taxes, installation, community engagement activities, and artwork retrieval. Artists will be paid in two phases: 50% upon agreement approval and 50% after installation and documentation completion. The project is open to New Mexico residents aged 18 years and older. All selected artists must enter into a Public Artist Agreement with New Mexico Arts and the Host Site. Artwork installation and engagement activities will take place January-June 30, 2020, with artwork typically on temporary display for 30-60 days. Submission deadline is January 6, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. MST. Artists will be notified January 17, 2020.