Press release from Asheville Downtown Association Foundation:
Request for Qualifications
Wall Street Stairway MuralBackground:
The Asheville Downtown Association Foundation (ADAF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission support and promote activities, projects and programs that enhance the livability, arts and culture, economy, safety and infrastructure of Downtown Asheville. The ADAF is the sister organization to the Asheville Downtown Association, a 501(c)(6) membership organization.The ADAF has actively raised funds or supported many public art projects including the canopy at Pack Square Park, the murals on the Lexington Avenue at the I240 underpass, and the soon-to-be-installed Lexington Avenue sculpture.
Project Description:
The Asheville Downtown Association Foundation is seeking an artist to create and install a mural or artistic installation on the stairway between Wall Street and Battery Park Avenue in Downtown Asheville. This installation of public art will become a focal piece and popular photography spot in downtown.The installation would be painted/affixed to the risers of the stairs creating a complete image when viewed from Wall Street. We would also encourage the selected artist to consider how to incorporate the treads of the stairway as well, creating a visual from above as well as below.
Timeline:
• Response to RFQ due by 5pm on Friday, August 10
• Up to three artists selected to submit proposals, announced Friday, August 24 (or sooner)
• Proposal deadline Friday, September 14
• Artwork installation September 15-October 31
• Public unveiling early November
**Timeline subject to change
**Artists selected to submit proposals will receive a $250 stipend
Budget: $10,000Review:
The Asheville Downtown Association Foundation will work with the selected artist to determine appropriate content for the artwork. Because the City of Asheville retains ownership of the property where the art is to be installed, the project will also be presented to the Public Art and Culture Commission and Downtown Commission for review.Considerations:
Any mural or installation must comply with the Americans with Disabilities slip-resistant regulations. The steps currently have a built in slip resistant strip, which is of a contrasting color with the cement color of the step. Art on the step must preserve this contrasting color so that a pedestrian can easily see the edge of the step.Submittal:
To submit qualifications, please submit a letter of interest, up to five images showing relevant work, outline your process, and identify appropriate materials for this project.Please keep in mind that this public art is on a well-traveled right-of-way and consider materials that will be long lasting. The Asheville Downtown Association Foundation is committed to supporting artists local to the Asheville area.
Submit materials to Meghan Rogers at meghan@ashevilledowntown.org by Friday, August 10.
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