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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”

Public Art Fund is New York City’s private fund to commission public work projects from artists. The artists are not just New York City artists. The Public Art Fund recently commissioned Olafur Eliasson’s Waterfalls in New York City.

Rochelle Steiner, Director of Public Art Fund talks about their yearly open call for artists, called In the Public Realm:

“In the Public Realm begins with an open call for artists to submit materials (what to submit is outlined very specifically in the guidelines, which are on our website), which are reviewed by a jury of artists and curators. They look for artists whose work, they believe, shows potential to be relevant and appropriate for public space. Artists are not asked to make a proposal at this stage, but rather to present their work in ways that is representative and shows the breath of their interest. The jury will select ten artists, who will then be asked to develop proposals for works of public art, from which up to three will be selected to be realized.”

“For the In the Public Realm program, we are looking for innovative works of art that expand the possibilities of public art – conceptually, formally and/or technologically – and can be realized within the scope of the budget ($15,000 for fabrication and installation). Public Art Fund works with artists who are chosen to find appropriate a well suited space within the City of New York for the work to be temporarily exhibited.”

The deadline for In the Public Realm is February 2nd, 2010

Conclusion

It can be hard to get your foot in the door of a public art commission. People like to see completed projects so that they can be assured you are capable of delivering satisfactory work. One way to earn confidence is to make public work of your own as a temporary site specific installation in a gallery, museum or other public place (with the building owner’s permission.) These projects and documentation of your work will be invaluable to get your first public commission.

The artist fee can be significant, but you should know that doing public work is often time consuming and can be difficult. Prior experience working with others on projects will come in handy. Patience and sticking to deadlines are qualities that you must acquire. Do not be discouraged by not getting a commission right off; keep applying. It will be time consuming, but if this is what you really want, it will pay off in the end. Think of every proposal as a learning experience for the next one.

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