Arvonne Fraser Library Public Artwork Commission
Applications are closed
Project: Hennepin County – Arvonne Fraser Library
Issue date: October 15, 2024
Apply by: November 15, 2024 at 11:59pm CST
Artist Stipend: $70,000 artist fee (materials included)
Commissions Available: 1 (open to artist teams)
Background
Hennepin County Library is a national leader of library service, innovation, and excellence. Our 41 libraries, website and outreach services serve 1.2 million county residents over 611 square miles.
The library’s mission is to inspire, facilitate, and celebrate lifelong learning. Shaped by the information needs and aspirations of our residents, we envision the library as a shared space for enrichment and connection. Library services are an important part of thriving and interconnected communities. We believe that every Hennepin County resident should have a library card and use it regularly. In 2023, the library updated its 5-year strategic plan (link: 2023-2027 Hennepin County Library Strategic Plan Report (PDF 3.3 MB).
The historic Hennepin County Arvonne Fraser Library (Previously known as Southeast Library) was built in 1963. The library was originally built as a state capitol credit union for university and state employees and was then purchased for conversion to a library in December of 1966. The library was designed by modernist architect Ralph Rapson whose work also includes the builds of Cedar Square West (now Riverside Plaza) and the Rarig Center. Arvonne Fraser Library currently sits on the east bank of the University of Minnesota
in the Dinky town area and serves residents of several communities including those of the University of Minnesota, Marcy-Holmes, Prospect Park and Cedar-Riverside neighborhoods. The Arvonne Fraser Library holds a unique position, situated next to the St. Anthony Falls—revered by the Dakota people as Owámniyomni. This land carries deep historical and cultural significance, standing as a reminder of the rich Indigenous heritage that shaped the area long before it became a part of the cityscape. The library also serves some of the most historic and culturally significant Native neighborhoods, creating a space that honors the past while fostering a community for learning and growth. it’s essential to approach this space with respect and acknowledgment of the land’s history and the people who continue to call it home.
Renovation and Renaming
In December 2018, the library underwent a year-long renovation that preserved its mid-century modern design and unique geometry. The renovation, executed by Minneapolis based firm MacDonald and Mac architects, included the addition of new collaborative study spaces, quiet seating, areas for youth and families, elevator access and flexible meeting spaces with computers.
In 2018, the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners voted to rename the library in honor of Arvonne Fraser, an American Women’s right’s advocate, political campaigner and Minnesota native. The Hennepin County board voted to rename the library after Fraser in response to a Board Action Request offered by former Commissioner Peter McLaughlin. McLaughlin represented District 4, which includes the neighborhoods served by Arvonne Fraser Library. Fraser lived near the library until her death in August of 2018, at age 92 and was a passionate advocate for the public library system.
Learn more about the Arvonne Fraser Library.
Project Overview
Hennepin County Library is collaborating with Forecast Public Art to facilitate the curation and commissioning process for two permanent artworks located at the north and south stairwells. A goal of the selection process is to select an artist or artists team that has demonstrated experience working in public art and community engagement.
The selected artists will carry out a public engagement process that will inform the design and implementation of the final artwork.
Budget
$70,000
This not-to-exceed fee covers artist time, travel, materials, community engagement, installation, and any required engineering, and/or other costs associated with the project.
Eligibility
This Public Art commission is open to mid-career and established artists or artist-teams that live within the geographical boundaries of Minnesota, including those from Native Nations whose homelands are located in what is now considered Minnesota.
- What is a Mid-Career Artist? Mid-career artists are recognized by their peers and arts professionals, have produced an independent body of work and have a record of commissions, projects, or exhibitions.
- What is an Established Artist? Established artists are recognized by their peers and arts professionals nationally or internationally, have produced an independent body of work and have a record of commissions, projects, or exhibitions.
Applicants must be 18 years or older and have proven experience with public art and public engagement. Forecast Public Art and the selection team will select artists without regard to sexual orientation or gender identity; familial, marital status, or pregnancy; guide dog or support animal; race, color, religion, ancestry, or national origin; gender, age; handicap or disability; possession of GED.
Artwork Sites
Two works of art will be installed on brick wall surfaces: one in the north stairwell near the north entry and another in the south stairwell near the south entrance, as indicated by the red outlines on the floor plan below. The artwork will be permanent but should be removable or ideally mounted to a surface. The committee is open to 2D and 3D media, with all pieces installed within the brick zone. Please refer to the “Artwork installation area dimensions” photo as reference for potential artwork sizes to be installed in the area. Please note that hanging artwork from the ceiling may be challenging due to structural considerations, so wall-mounted installations are preferred. Additionally, the artwork should remain below the line of the windows to ensure visibility and integration with the space. Any additional engineering fees related to the artist’s chosen medium will be the artist’s responsibility. Further details for both installation areas are provided below.
Site Visit
A site visit to learn about both art installation areas at the Arvonne Fraser Library will be held at 10:00 am CDT, Thursday, October 31, 2024.
Attendance is encouraged. Limited free library parking is available near the south entrance; and metered street parking is available at all hours (flat rate or entire day). Please allow time to park. We encourage all attending artists or artist teams to come prepared with questions about the RFQ, site-related details, installation parameters or any other project considerations.
Selection Process
Submissions will be pre-screened to ensure all applicants meet eligibility requirements.
The Selection Committee, which includes site neighbors, art professionals, and Hennepin County staff, will review eligible applications as part of Phase 1 and select a group of up to three finalists/finalist teams to develop one large concept design to be split into two artworks or two identical design concepts for both walls. Each artist/team will receive a stipend of $1,000 to cover costs associated with the Phase 2 concept design and in-person interviews. Further information will be provided to the finalists. Deliverables include graphic ideas for the proposed artwork, a brief project narrative, a plan for engaging the community around the design concepts, a budget, a timeline, and a proposed approach to project maintenance.
Finalists will have approximately three to four weeks to prepare preliminary design concepts. Upon completion of in-person presentations, one artist/artist team will be commissioned to design, create, and install both artworks.
Phase 1
Selection of artist/designers will be based on the following criteria:
- Letter of interest.
- The quality, clarity, thoughtfulness, and alignment with the project’s background expressed in the artist’s letter of interest.
- Portfolio work samples.
- Evaluation of the artist’s portfolio to assess the technical skill, innovation, and aesthetic appeal of their previous work. Do the work samples demonstrate the artist’s professional experience working on public art projects of a similar scope and commission?
- Community engagement approach.
- The artist should have a thoughtful and effective approach to community engagement that will inform their design process, while ensuring the project reflects the voices, experiences and history of the communities that occupy the library.
- Management and Execution Capability
- This focuses on the artist’s practical ability to deliver the project, including their professional experience, organizational skills, access to necessary resources, and past success in completing similar projects on time and within budget. It’s about assessing their overall capacity to handle the scope and logistics of the commission. This should be written into the artist’s letter of interest.
- Connection to the Community
- Ideally, the artist or team should have a strong connection to the community and be able to represent its voices. This should be evident in their letter of interest and community engagement approach.
Phase 2
Design concepts must meet the following criteria:
- Design concepts are welcoming and approachable, fostering a sense of inclusivity and accessibility for all.
- Artwork highlights, honors, and reflects the unique character of the community and the library, serving as a testament to the neighborhood’s greatness.
- Artwork captivates attention and offers ongoing interest with each visit, providing a rewarding experience for viewers.
- Artwork harmonizes with existing pieces in the area, ensuring cohesion and avoiding visual clutter.
- Artwork establishes a tangible connection between the building and public space, fostering a sense of belonging for both visitors and residents.
- Artwork serves as a catalyst for community identity, potentially becoming a cherished neighborhood landmark.
- Artwork is impactful and requires minimal upkeep to ensure long-term enjoyment and preservation.
Upon completion and review of in-person presentations, one artist/artist team will be commissioned to design, create, and install the artwork.
Timeline
Disclaimer: The timeline provided is contingent upon the number of submissions received for the artist call. Any adjustments to the timeline may occur based on the volume of submissions and the subsequent review process. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this matter.
How to Submit
Individuals or teams are asked to provide the following below materials, combined into a single PDF document
1. Letter of Interest
Submit a letter expressing your interest in the project, outlining your design and community engagement approach, as well as your connection to the project background and/or surrounding communities. Provide your contact information. The letter should not exceed 300 words.
2. Statement of Qualifications and Work Samples
Include information about your qualifications and experience in public art. Examples include a resume or CV. Provide up to 10 work samples from previous and recent projects that demonstrate your expertise and experience working on projects of a similar scope. Individuals and teams are limited to a maximum of 10 images. Include all images and label each with your full name, followed by a number corresponding to the list of work samples.
3. Work Sample List
Prepare a one-page listing of each work sample, providing a brief description and budget for each. For example: work sample 1, description, budget, and so on. This list should correspond to the images submitted as part of your statement of qualifications and work samples.
4. References
Provide a list of three references.
Ensure all materials are clearly labeled and submitted according to the specified guidelines.
NOTE: Do NOT submit a proposal for artworks at this time.
Deadline
Friday, November 15, 2024 at 11:59 pm CST
LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
Use the following Submittable Form to submit your application:
Sample Contract
This downloadable contract is an example of the standard agreement used by Hennepin County libraries for contracting with the final artist.
Questions?
If you need clarification or further information, contact Forecast at info@forecastpublicart.org or Taylan De Johnette at
taylan@forecastpublicart.org
LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
About Forecast
Forecast firmly believes that culture and creativity are important drivers of creating a more just society. As one of the country’s first nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing the field of public art, we are called to advocate for and advance public art practices that advance justice, health, and human dignity. We are invested in public art that plays a crucial role in creating a sense of belonging, and supporting people to realize their potential and live healthy lives. We emphasize access for artists of color, Indigenous artists, and groups that are traditionally excluded. Learn more about our work.
Attachment A
Attachment A includes additional images of the artwork site, featuring pre-construction photographs, construction renderings, and site specifications. Additionally, a sample contract, to be utilized in the contracting process with the finalist, is provided for reference.
Figure 1. Architect’s rendering of remodeled lobby and service desk area.
Figure 3. Elevation showing approximate dimensions of area available for art. Awarded artist/team will need to field verify dimensions prior to work.
March 15 Sumner Library Site Visit QUESTION ADDENDUM
Please contact Taylan DeJohnette at taylan@forecastpublicart.org for additional site-related questions.
1. Will there be signage or plaque information provided to the public pertaining to the artworks and its meaning?
Yes, this will be provided by Sumner Library. Information included on the signage/plaque will be created in consultation with the artist.
2. Will there be additional lighting in or near the installation area?
There won’t be any wall-wash or special lighting directed at the art, just the planned light fixtures for the room.
3. Will construction be completed in time for artwork installation?
Yes, artists aren’t expected to install until after construction is completed.
4. Will artists have access to storage facilities (for the purpose of storing installation equipment) in case artwork installation takes place over the course of several days?
Depending on the amount of storage needed, Sumner library would be happy to accommodate storage needs.
5. Can artists use permanent methods of installation?
No, in the case of mural/painted installations, Sumner would prefer the artwork to be adhered to a surface first that can then be attached to the installation area and is easily removable.
6. Following construction, what will be the walls final paint colors?
The lobby walls will be Sherwin-Williams SW9109 Natural Linen. Other wall colors throughout the main level include SW6156 Ramie, SW7727 Koi Pond, and SW6172 Hardware. The ceilings will be white.
7. Is there a community engagement portion to the artwork?
Yes, this will be an ongoing partnership between the artists and facilitators at Sumner Library.
(651) 641-1128
INFO@FORECAST
