University of Wisconsin Seeks Artist for Falcon Sculpture

The University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) is seeking proposals for an outdoor sculpture of a falcon. The sculpture will reside outside a newly renovated building, which will become a gateway to the university.

Budget: $100,000
Eligibility: Professional artists
Deadline: 10/05/2019 5:00 PM Central Time

NOTE:  This is a request for a proposal.  Applicants must design and budget the sculpture, uncompensated, as part of the application process.

Project Description
As the university mascot is a falcon (Peregrine falcon), the sculpture should be a depiction of a falcon, but not the school’s mascot.

Proposals are accepted for individual and collaborative works. Artwork proposals are limited to a permanent, freestanding, site-specific sculpture of a falcon. Artists are urged to consider the physical placement, lighting, material, and size in their proposals. Preference will be given to site specific proposals. Due to the permanence of the installation, seasonal or ephemeral work will not be given consideration. Duration of installation is permanent. Work is to be continuously displayed with open access. UWRF will retain ownership of the work. It is expected that the selected sculpture will remain in good working order over time, withstanding harsh Wisconsin weather. Materials used in construction should be safe, appropriate to a public outdoor environment, and should not negatively impact landscaping, the university environment, and guests. Certain work might require the submission of additional information or materials for consideration. Strong preference will be given to the proposal that can have the artwork installed by May 2021. If that deadline is not achievable, submit a proposed deadline for installation.

Artwork Goals
It is intended that this sculpture may become somewhat of a talisman-like focal point, where visitors, students, and their families may take photos.

Site History
Founded in 1874, the University of Wisconsin-River Falls is one of 13 comprehensive universities in the prestigious University of Wisconsin System. Located in the beautiful St. Croix Valley just 30 minutes from the Twin Cities, UWRF is a leader in exemplary teaching, undergraduate research, and sustainability. Our mission is to help prepare students to be productive, creative, ethical, engaged citizens and leaders with an informed global perspective.

Timeline
Work is to be installed by May 2021. You will be notified by email of application status by September 30, 2019. No phone calls, please.

Selection Process
A panel including UWRF Art Department faculty and administrative staff will review proposals and select one project for funding.

Selection Criteria
Proposals will be judged on artistic merit, capability, budget, and impact as evidenced by past work, supporting materials, and educational effectiveness around leading a student-centered activity. Ideal proposals will support the mission of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and be site-specific.

What to Submit
Submission must include the following items:

1. Resume, two page maximum.
2. Artist statement, one page maximum.
3. Proposal, five page maximum. Proposal should be clear, specific, and outline a plan. Consideration should be given to Guidelines, Budget, and Installation.
4. Budget, two page maximum. Budget should support activities, purchases, costs, etc., related to proposal.
5. 10 images. Video (3 max) and/or audio (3 max) are accepted. You are encouraged to include a rendering of proposed project as one of your images or videos. Image files should be labeled with last name, first name, and number, indicating your preferred viewing order. For example, John Doe would save as doejoe1.jpg for first image. (6) Image list, including title, material(s), size, year completed, dimensions, and optional description for each image. NOTE: Please put first and last name on each document.

How to Submit
Submit ONLINE ONLY through the CaFE system.

QUESTIONS?  Contact art.department@uwrf.edu