The City of Fremont, California is seeking artist proposals for the commission of an engaging and permanent public art installation for the new Downtown Event Center and Plaza in the City’s Downtown District. The artist will design, fabricate, and install the artwork. The area for the artwork is approximately 10 feet by 20 feet, with a maximum height of 10 feet.

BUDGET:  $172,500

ELIGIBILITY: Professional artists over 18 living in the U.S.

DEADLINE: October 9, 2020

Note: the application process requires applicants to create a concept proposal including sketch, narrative, and budget. The applicant is not compensated for this up-front design work.

The City of Fremont has embarked on the ambitious project of building a vibrant, centrally-located Downtown District from scratch. With many new buildings now under construction and others beginning to open their doors, there is a sense of momentum and vibrancy in Downtown. The Downtown Event Center and Plaza will be the first new public building constructed and will add to this energy by creating a unique space for the entire Fremont community to gather. The Downtown Event Center and Plaza will serve as a destination for community meetings, receptions, local business events, and economic development conferences. The project features a 13,400 square foot community center adjacent to a one acre plaza that provides room for active games/sports, food trucks, concerts, maker fairs, markets, and more. For more information on the Downtown District and the Downtown Event Center and Plaza project, please visit www.Fremont.gov/Downtown.

The artwork installation will be located within the new public plaza adjacent to the Downtown Event Center. The artwork will activate an otherwise passive area of the plaza. It will be located along one of the main walkways leading into the entrance of the Downtown Event Center, and it will receive significant exposure. The artwork will help define the character of the plaza by creating an engaging and vibrant atmosphere while also offering pleasant walking experiences for residents and visitors.

In line with the current development momentum of Fremont building a downtown from scratch, the artwork should reflect the theme of “forward.” The artwork should convey the energy and excitement of the construction of the new downtown and this new community gathering space. Particular consideration will be given to artwork that engages its viewer through the use of interactive elements, lights, or other technology.

WHAT TO SUBMIT

1. Letter of Interest: Describes the artist’s interest in this specific project, what they bring to the project as an artist, and experience with other projects of similar scope.
2. Conceptual Art Proposal and Narrative: One conceptual art proposal (preferably an annotated sketch) for the site and a descriptive narrative including vision, approach, size, and possible materials. The description narrative must also include a breakdown of estimated costs of the artwork between materials, fabrication, shipping, and installation costs, as well as the total estimated cost of the artwork. If the artwork requires electricity or other utilities, the descriptive narrative should also include a description of utility needs. Only PDF documents will be considered, and each page should be clearly labeled with the artist’s name and title of the artwork.
3. Updated Resume: Professional resume not to exceed three (3) pages.
4. References: Three (3) professional references from past projects with contact information.

HOW TO SUBMIT

Submit ONLINE ONLY via the CaFE system.

QUESTIONS?  Contact Luciana Torres, lutorres@fremont.gov or 510-494-4553