Chicago Tree Project Seeks Applicants

Chicago Tree Project Seeks Applicants

Website: https://artist.callforentry.org/festivals_unique_info.php?ID=6221

 Chicago, IL, Unknown

Chicago Sculpture International, in collaboration with the Chicago Park District, is seeking experienced artists and artist teams to give dying trees in Chicago parks new life. This RFP seeks an experienced artist (or artist team) to turn the tree into a sculpture: beautiful, original, unique works of art that will become a distinguishing feature in the neighborhood.

Budget: $3,500 (stipend)
Eligibility: Professional artists age 18 or older
Deadline: 03/06/2020 1:00 PM Central Time

Project Description

This is a request for proposals. You may propose two concepts, but only one will be accepted. In other words, in the section in which you describe your proposed project(s), describe one or two concepts. Selected artists will be notified of an available tree that matches their concept drawing. Each artist should also submit qualifications that address projects of similar scale. We are looking for evidence that the artist is comfortable working with the appropriate equipment and at heights required for this project. Selected artists must follow safety criteria and are encouraged to complete an OSHA scaffolding certification course.

Insurance must be in place while working on the project: Commercial General Liability Insurance (Primary and Umbrella) on an occurrence basis with limits not less than $1,000,000 single limit per occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate for bodily injury, personal injury and property damage. The Chicago Park District is to be named as an Additional Insured on a Primary, non-contributory basis.

CSI will provide the tree/site scaffold and a fence around the site during construction for a one-month period (artists can apply for an extension). Due to the condemned nature of the tree, the CPD reserves the right to remove it at their discretion.

The Chicago Tree Project is not a residency. Out-of-town artists are expected to find lodging while working in Chicago. Artists who will be installing sculptural elements in their trees must find their own workspace in Chicago if these elements are not fabricated before work on the tree begins.

Artists whose proposals are accepted, if they are not already CSI members, will be asked to join. There are many membership benefits, including exhibition and networking opportunities, a presence on our website and access to valuable professional information. See what we’re all about at: www.chicagosculpture.org.

Artwork Goals 

The approach can be additive and/or subtractive. The trees will be approximately 16-30 ft. tall and may include main side branches. Past projects can be seen at www.chicagotreeproject.org.

Please keep in mind the following criteria:

  • Your approach will not compromise the integrity of the tree.
  • Objects created will not help people to climb the trees or cause attached objects to fall or need maintenance.
  • Before you work on the tree, any branches less than 8” in diameter will get cut, as well as any branches that extend 6’ beyond the trunk of the tree.

Timeline

Apply by Friday, March 6, 2020, 11:59 p.m. CST

What to Submit

  1. Up to 6 digital images. At least one of the images should be a mock-up/drawing of your proposed tree sculpture (up to two designs allowed). Other images should be samples of relevant past work. It should be clear which images are of your proposal as opposed to past work.
  2. Artist information.

How to Submit

Please apply through the Call for Entry (CaFE) system. at https://artist.callforentry.org/festivals_unique_info.php?ID=6221

QUESTIONS?  Contact Libbie Beaudet, info@chicagosculpture.org