The Art Selection Committee is seeking public artwork that marks the transition from a historic, tree-lined neighborhood into the vibrant urban environment of the NEON District, while also inviting and signifying the entrance to the Fusion apartment complex. This site lies at the intersection of the traditional, refined atmosphere of a museum and the raw, eclectic energy of NEON. We invite artists to create a bold, unexpected installation that challenges conventional outdoor sculpture formats.

Rather than a static piece on a pedestal, we envision artwork that flows and interacts with the space—perhaps wrapping around a corner, climbing a building, or extending into the surroundings. The installation should be dynamic, lively, and thought-provoking, embodying creativity in its most fluid and experimental form. We are looking for bright, bold expressions of art that reflect the unique, funky spirit of the NEON District while marking the entrance to Fusion as a distinctive, welcoming landmark.

SIZE/MEDIUM: The artwork should be designed to engage both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, with a scale that commands attention from a distance while offering intricate details that can be appreciated up close. Reflecting the neighborhood’s themes of water, glass, fluidity, and reflection, artists are encouraged to explore motion, either through kinetic elements or the visual perception of movement, allowing the piece to interact dynamically with its environment. The site is equipped with electricity, allowing for potential lighting or other interactive features. Durability is key: the artwork must be crafted from permanent, low-maintenance materials that are safe, weather-resistant, and designed to stand the test of time.

This is a unique opportunity for a professional public artist to mentor four emerging local artists in Hampton Roads, Virginia. The selected Mentor Artist will guide four mentees interested in pursuing careers in public art, helping them to develop their skills as they navigate the public art field. The Mentor Artist will assist with reviewing applications, interviewing finalists and selecting the four mentees. Additionally, the Mentor Artist will be responsible for ensuring that the four public art projects are successfully built, meeting all necessary requirements and deadlines. The Mentor will receive a $250,000 contract, which includes a $50,000 stipend. Each mentee will receive a $50,000 subcontract through the Mentor to create a public artwork at one of four designated sites. (The total budget for the program is $250,000.)

Visit the Virginia Association of Museum’s for museum employment in Virginia.

(Note: No Deadline, this is an ongoing opportunity)

The Norfolk Public Art Commission seeks to match funds up to $25,000 to create Public Private Partnerships to create public art in Norfolk, VA.

CONTEXT: Public art is a valuable tool for creating dynamic and sustainable places. Art displayed prominently at locations within the community serves as an effective tool for creating unique and diverse destinations. Public art can also bring added texture to otherwise indistinguishable areas. Funded by 1% of the City of Norfolk’s Capital Improvement budget, the Norfolk Public Art Program has been successfully commissioning public art for the past twelve years in downtown, parking garages, the zoo, light rail stations, community centers and a variety of other public spaces.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: We are seeking private commercial developers who want to enhance their development project with public art. The Norfolk Public Art Commission will match up to $25,000 for each project.

PROJECT SITE: Artwork must be placed within Norfolk city limits at the private development site where it can be experienced by the maximum number of people.

SIZE/MEDIA: Artwork size and materials will be determined by the project site(s). Artwork must be fabricated in durable, permanent materials that are safe and easily maintained. Artwork will become the property of the City of Norfolk and will be maintained by the City.

PROJECT FUNDS: The total budget for the completed artwork will be a minimum of $50,000 with $25,000 from City Public Art funds and $25,000 or more from the developer.

TO APPLY: All commercial developers and foundations are eligible. Please submit a letter of interest to Karen Rudd, City Hall, 810 Union St., Room 409 Marketing and Communications, Norfolk, Virginia 23510 or email karen.rudd@norfolk.gov. Candidates will be interviewed prior to final selection. There is no fee to apply.

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