Request for Qualifications (RFQ)
Five art commissions at Springboard for the Arts’ new home
Download PDF of RFQ here!

RFQ response deadline: July 27, 2020, 11:59pm
Watch Zoom info session here

Seeking up to five artists/artist teams who live, work or have a connection to Minnesota to create permanent art for one of 5 commissions at Springboard for the Arts’ new offices at 262 University Ave W, Saint Paul. This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will consist of a two-part process, with an initial response to this RFQ due on July 27, 2020. Finalists will receive a $1000 stipend to prepare a full proposal. Artists/artist teams are not required to have previously completed a public art project, but successful applicants need to demonstrate their ability to lead and complete a project. Selected artists/artist teams will receive the indicated project support amount to cover all expenses related to creating and installing artwork for Springboard.

Commissions:
-Native Presence- installation, signage, or other on the exterior main entrance/plaza- $20,000
-Mural on University side of fence - $20,000
-Pre-Owned Vehicle Sign repurposed as public art - total $20,000 (includes $5,000 contingency)
- Watershed signage (tank and rain garden), tank/drain treatment  - $20,000
- Roof water feature - $10,000

Message from Springboard for the Arts’ Executive Director Laura Zabel
Due to pandemic related safety concerns we aren't completely sure when and how the installation of these pieces will work. Our original goal was to have these pieces installed on the site by the end of summer, but we recognize that there are a lot of things we don't know yet about recommended safety precautions, constructions schedules etc. Rather than wait until we know everything about timing, we are starting the selection process now so that we can make commitments to artists and get money to them for these projects. We raised this money to pay individual artists to make work and we know that is even more important now. So we will be asking selected artists for flexibility, patience and good communication around timelines, schedules and process. Our commitment is to work with the selected artists, our contractors and advisors to get the work installed as close to on time as possible and with the safety of everyone as our first priority.