U.S. Cellular Center Light Sculpture

The City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa is requesting artist qualifications for a public art installation to be located in the City of Cedar Rapids Convention Center and U.S. Cellular Center Complex. An enclosed glass room that protrudes over 1st Avenue NE, commonly referred to as "the Lantern," has been selected as the future location of a high-profile work of public art. The Lantern serves as the downtown view terminus to the community's "main street," 3rd Street SE, and is one of the most visible sites in Cedar Rapids.

The selection committee will show preference for artists that utilize programmable, kinetic, and colorful eco-friendly lighting. The artwork must be site-specific, taking into account the site's various elements, and must not exceed the allotted budget of $100,000, including creation, transportation, and installation. The artwork should have aesthetic interest in both daylight and at night, be suitable for public viewing of all ages, and be durable and low maintenance.

Qualifications submission deadline is September 5, 2019. Finalists will be chosen and asked to create a physical or digital model for review by the selection committee. The selected artist will meet with the selection committee at least three times between selection and summer 2020 to review and refine the artwork. Final selection of artist is scheduled for November 14, 2019, with completion and installation in summer 2020. Proposals must be submitted 100% on CaFÉ and include a statement of interest (500 words or less), resume or CV, two letters of recommendation from previous clients, and a portfolio of at least 6 different original works demonstrating the artist's ability to complete the project. The artist must commit to the outlined schedule, complete the project within the $100,000 budget, sign an artist agreement with the City of Cedar Rapids, provide proof of professional liability insurance, and be willing to engage with the selection committee to refine the final art piece. Contact Sylvia Brueckert at [email protected] or 319-286-5428 with questions.