Request for Proposals: Watershed Excellence Awards Commission

Request for Proposals (RFP)

Watershed Excellence Awards Art Commission

Overview

The Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District (RWMWD) is seeking proposals from artists to design and create a series of handcrafted awards recognizing outstanding watershed volunteers and community partners. These awards will be presented during the District’s annual recognition dinner in November each year, celebrating individuals and organizations whose contributions have helped protect and improve local water resources. This annual commission may be long-term (5 years or more) if all parties agree.

RWMWD welcomes proposals from artists working in a variety of mediums and encourages creative interpretations that reflect the importance of surface water, natural resources, stewardship, and community.

Project Scope

The selected artist will design and fabricate four to five (4–5) unique awards that:

• Reflect the mission and values of the Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District.
• Are appropriate for presentation as recognition awards.
• Are durable and suitable for long-term display.
• May incorporate themes related to water bodies (lakes, streams, wetlands), watersheds, watershed wildlife, or surface water stewardship.

The District will provide award recipient names for incorporation into the final pieces if desired by the selected artist.

Budget

The budget is $250–$300 per award, inclusive of artist labor, materials, and any associated production costs.

Timeline

• RFP Released: July 22
• Proposal Deadline: August 14
• Artist Selected: August 21
• Award Production: August–October
• Final Awards Due: November 6

Completed awards must be delivered or available for pickup within the Twin Cities metropolitan area by November 6.

Proposal Requirements

Interested artists should submit:

• A brief statement of interest.
• Examples of previous work (portfolio, website, social media handles, or images).
• Estimated cost per award within the stated budget.
• Confirmation of availability to meet the project timeline.

Selection Process

Proposals will be reviewed by a committee of Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District staff and community residents. The committee will evaluate submissions based on:

• Artistic quality and creativity.
• Experience creating commissioned artwork or awards.
• Ability to complete the project on schedule.
• Overall value within the project budget.

The selected artist will be notified by August 21.

Submission Information

Please submit proposals electronically to:

Lauren Hazenson
Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District
lauren.hazenson@rwmwd.org
612-839-6417

Questions regarding this commission may also be directed to the contact listed above.

We look forward to partnering with an artist to create meaningful awards that honor the dedication and accomplishments of our watershed volunteers and community partners.