CALL FOR ART: Art Installation at Betty Ehart Senior Activity Center
Published on October 29, 2024
The Los Alamos County Art in Public Places Board (APPB) invites artists to submit proposals for a distinctive, functional art piece that will serve as a security gate for the Betty Ehart Senior Activity Center, located at 1101 Bathtub Row in Los Alamos, NM. This commissioned artwork will balance safety with aesthetic appeal, enhancing the beauty of the surrounding area.
The APPB seeks an artistic gate that meets the unique needs of this space. Designed to secure a stairwell that overlooks a patio and future outdoor classroom area, the gate will provide safety from outside access while maintaining functionality as an emergency exit. While all unique visions are welcomed, artists are encouraged to explore “Odetta”, an artistic gate by K.R. (Cricket) Ernst at the Mesa Public Library in Los Alamos and APPB’s inspiration for this project. This project also requires a provision for attaching a County-supplied panic bar on the interior side of the gate.
Project Specifications
The proposed gate must meet the following dimensions: a height of 106 inches, a width of up to 55.75 inches, and a depth of up to 9 inches. Given its exterior location, the artwork must withstand Los Alamos’ seasonal weather and maintain a lifespan of at least 20 years.
Selection Criteria and Requirements Submissions
will be evaluated based on quality of workmanship, the artist's recognition, appropriateness for the location, maintenance requirements, security considerations, and price. Each artist should include a comprehensive description, a color rendering of the proposed design, and details about installation, recommended maintenance, and any public safety considerations. Semi-finalists may be invited to give an oral presentation to the APPB.
The estimated budget for the project will cover artwork, installation, and any associated costs. Artists whose work is selected will enter into a formal purchase agreement with Los Alamos County and will be required to secure general liability, workers’ compensation, and automobile liability insurance.
Submission Guidelines and Deadlines
Each entry package must include the artist’s contact information, a narrative description of the artwork, specifications for installation, a color photograph or rendering of the piece, the artist’s resume, and relevant examples of previous work. Submissions are due by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 6, 2024.
Interested artists may submit proposals electronically to chelsea.ashcraft@lacnm.us. If unable to send by email, materials may be mailed to:
APPB Staff Liaison
Los Alamos County
1000 Central Avenue, Ste 310
Los Alamos, NM 87544
The Los Alamos County Art in Public Places Board looks forward to receiving innovative designs from artists eager to enhance the community’s spaces through public art. For additional questions or information please click here: https://tinyurl.com/Call-4-Art , or contact Chelsea Ashcraft at (505) 662-8261 or chelsea.ashcraft@lacnm.us
About Los Alamos County Art in Public Places Board
The Los Alamos County Art in Public Places Board advises the County Council on public art installations that enrich the community and promote cultural expression. The County Council holds final authority on APPB recommendations.