West Side Community Center Public Art Project

The Bernalillo County Arts Board solicits a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for artists or artists' teams for a site-specific public art project at the West Side Community Center in Albuquerque's South Valley, located at 1250 Isleta Blvd SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105. The budget is $40,000. The art will be integrated into a new outdoor stage (approximately 48' x 34'6") or located on concrete areas near the stage. The artwork should represent the cultures, people, heritage, and/or landscapes of the South Valley of Albuquerque and enhance the performance space both during the day and at night. The Board seeks artists or artists' teams working in diverse media including metal work, painted murals, mosaic, and sculpture. No prior experience in public art is necessary. Durability and low maintenance of all materials is required, and the artist must ensure the artwork is protected against strong winds, ultraviolet rays, and graffiti.

Eligible artists or artist teams must reside in New Mexico and demonstrate ability to complete projects on time and within budget, understanding of the region and its history and population, and experience with community engagement especially with youth. Applicants must submit an artist's statement, a letter of intent detailing knowledge of the South Valley's cultures and communities and initial project concept, a current resume, at least 3 but no more than 10 digital images of past work, and an annotated image key. Artists may also submit up to one video of a past project. There is no application fee. The $40,000 budget includes all fees and expenses associated with the project including materials, equipment, labor, permits, travel, installation, and documentation. Three semi-finalists will be selected in fall 2024 to create and present detailed designs to the selection committee, with the finalist selected in fall 2024. Installation is scheduled by summer 2025.