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How to Win Public Art Commissions

Rob Fischer As Above, So Below, 2007 Steel, mesh, galvanized pipe and stained glass windows retrofitted from a church 204 x 168 x 58”

Jim Glenn of Utah Public & Design Arts gives these guidelines:

“Some public art programs are very strict when enforcing the requirements listed in a Request for Qualifications. In those cases the artist’s applications are rejected and not seen by the selection committee.

It is very important the artist read the details of the RFQ carefully. Deadlines (most important), addresses, number of images allowed and in what format, how many pages allowed, single sided, stapled, number of copies required, self addressed envelope and ample postage if the artist wants the material returned. The artist should make sure there are contact details in the material so that the program / committee can contact them. Supplemental material, unless asked for, will most often not be included in the committee packets. More images than what are specified in the RFQ will usually not be shown and in some cases will disqualify an application with some programs.

The artist’s images should be as clear and un-cluttered as possible. These committees are often looking at upwards of 1500 images in one meeting. Multiple images in one screen shot (in my opinion) clutters the impact of the work. Moving images (movies) of 2D work really is not necessary unless there are some special qualities in the work (kinetic or interactive medium, etc) that warrant moving images. Still images of kinetic work or multi-media / electronic work is hard for committee members to understand.

In my experience, it is the artist’s work that speaks the clearest and excites a selection committee. If the work is strong and the submitted images are well done, and clear any shortcomings in the rest of the application can be overlooked. The artist’s letter of interest is the second most important part of the application. The committee is looking to see why the artist is interested and how the artist explains how their work could relate to the project.

For most public art programs, the administrator would welcome an email or phone question from the artist if something is not clear before submitting the materials." Photo credit: Daleene Menning’s “Fantasy On A Theme From Life, Suite #1”

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