The Seattle Arts Commission seeks artists to develop art in three diverse urban parks. The projects are the first artworks to be created for Seattle Parks and Recreation under a new Pro Parks art plan. Visual artists residing in the United States are eligible to apply. Full-time students are ineligible.
Applications and the Pro Parks art plan are available on the Arts Commission Web site at www.cityofseattle.net/arts (select "Funding Opportunities) or by calling 206-615-1801. Applications must be at the Seattle Arts Commission office, 312 First Avenue North, Second Floor, in Seattle, by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2003.
These three projects are an opportunity to be involved in the first stage of the creation of a legacy of artwork in Seattle's park system that will occur over the next five years. Budgets will range from $60,000 to $90,000. Each project has the possibility of additional construction dollars.
I-5 Open Space: Seattle has been in the forefront of capturing unique open space for parks. A large piece of land under an elevated portion of the freeway north of downtown will be developed into a one-of-a-kind park, reconnecting two neighborhoods. It will have a variety of views toward Lake Union and the Space Needle. The site is an exciting challenge and opportunity.
Mineral Springs Park: This beautifully wooded smaller park site melds together the only disc golf course in Seattle with a newly designed natural section of the park. The new portion of the park will function as a multi-use passive park space. The open space blends new landform and landscape components with existing stands of trees and landforms.
South Lake Union Park: This major new waterfront park is under development on a lake at the north edge of downtown Seattle. The park will combine access to the lake, open space and references to the city's maritime heritage. Hargreaves Associates are beginning design work for this important park site.
The Pro Parks Art Plan outlines a vision and goals focussing on the creation of artworks that weave together art, nature and experience. Selected artists will not be required to participate on the project design teams. However, artists will be expected to interact with the designers during the development of the art concept.
Seattle Parks and Recreation oversees the parks system. It is a multi-faceted organization that serves myriad needs for Seattle citizens of all ages. Its mission is "to work with all citizens to be good stewards of our environment, and to provide safe and welcoming opportunities to play, learn, contemplate and build community."
Seattle's 1% for Art program integrates artworks and the ideas of artists into a variety of public settings. Artworks commissioned through the program are an expression of our time, displayed in spaces accessible to community members as they participate in City-related activity and engage in public life.
The Seattle Arts Commission strengthens our communities by managing one of the nation's most innovative public art programs; investing in art and culture for all residents through civic partnerships; connecting communities and artists to explore civic issues and ideas; supporting arts training for young people; promoting the arts' contribution to economic development; and advocating for the arts as part of our everyday lives. A 15-member citizen advisory commission, appointed by the Mayor for two-year terms, supports the City department.
Related Links:
