New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez is calling for artists to create temporary public artwork in each of the five boroughs.
The agency is conducting the search through a new Community Commissions: Artists Request for Proposals (RFP), a signature NYC DOT Art initiative in which the agency collaborates with community-based organizations to commission artists to design and install temporary, site-responsive public art on NYC DOT infrastructure, including medians, triangles, sidewalks and asphalt, according to a news release.
The agency may provide up to $20,000 to selected artists for production of artwork and other project-related costs. The RFP is open through June 30, 2024, at 11:59pm.
“Public art inspires New Yorkers and beautifies our streetscape, and there's no better way to amplify and support the mission of these local organizations than collaborating to make our public spaces more vibrant,” said NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “We encourage all local artists to apply for this unique funding opportunity to produce artwork in their neighborhoods.”
NYC DOT is partnering with community-based organizations that will participate throughout all phases of project development, including artist selection, design evolution, community engagement and outreach, fabrication, installation, maintenance, and other project related tasks.
In Brooklyn, NYC DOT will be partnering with I AM Caribbeing for the Brooklyn site at Washington Avenue and Empire Boulevard.
“I AM Caribbeing is thrilled and grateful to partner with NYC DOT for Community Commissions,” said Shelley V. Worrell, founder and cultural entrepreneur at I AM Caribbeing. “This vibrant art installation will be located adjacent to Caribbean-American communities, small businesses, and culturally iconic landmarks, showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of the area. This collaborative effort will not only beautify the area but also foster community pride, cultural exchange, and economic growth.”
NYC DOT will display artworks for up to 11 months at designated community sites and is interested in proposals for sculptural or two-dimensional work. Artists are invited to propose site-responsive design and installation plans via the Community Commissions: Artists Request for Proposals on Submittable.
Join NYC DOT Art for a webinar on June 5, 2024, at 12pm to learn about this RFP. This webinar will review the open call for artists to create site-specific, temporary public art in NYC. NYC DOT Art will introduce the partner organizations, discuss the five installation sites (one in each borough), and review the application process. Please register via Zoom.
