Fredericton seeks temporary art proposals
Professional artists invited to make their pitches to city hall for displays in outdoor spaces
The City of Fredericton is bringing back its Temporary Public Art Program, and it’s seeking proposals from professional artists for outdoor displays aimed at enhancing the appeal of the community.
City hall is looking for pitches that would see works of art installed on a temporary basis throughout the summer and into the fall.
“The goal of this program is to host a vibrant outdoor space for people to enjoy in the city,” the city said in a news release issued Monday.
The program was launched in 2020 with an initial display in Phoenix Square, the release said, but it’s since led to other displays in other parts of the capital that proved popular.
"Last year, Harold the Hippo's fleeting residence at Killarney Lake Park captured the community's heart," Coun. Eric Megarity, the city's livable community committee's chairman, said in the release.
"Such fleeting art spectacles weave us closer, inviting us to ponder and rejoice in the artistry and splendour of the city we cherish."
Among the public spaces under consideration for the 2024 incarnation of the program are various city parks and Phoenix Square, located just outside city hall.
“However, each location will have different conditions and challenges the artist must consider,” the release said.
“Proposals will be reviewed by a jury who will consider safety, sturdiness, public engagement and the environment around the piece.”
When preparing their proposals, artists should provide information on how they’ll install the project and how they’ll remove it, as they’ll be responsible for both if selected.
The request for proposals is open to professional artists in the greater Fredericton region.
Pitches should include the following:
a resume and biography detailing education level, artistic practice and body of work;
the location of the proposed temporary art installation;
design concepts with text and illustration;
a budget breakdown totalling a maximum of $5,000 for all costs;
and detailed timeline for the creation of the project and its installation.
Those interested in submitting proposals should send them by email to culture@fredericton.ca by April 12, and they can send any questions about the program to that address as well.
The Fredericton Independent can be reached at ftonindependent@gmail.com.