City of Tampa’s Portable Works Collection 

The City of Tampa’s Portable Works Collection is a rotating collection of over 600 artworks in all media, representing hundreds of artists collected by the city since 1985. The collection includes sculpture, painting, mixed media, prints and photography. 

The artworks are exhibited primarily in public areas of municipal buildings. Using 1%-for-Art funds from city construction budgets, the portable works collection includes the work of emerging and established artists. 

Project Background and Overview 

Tampa is a very progressive City in a tremendous growth stage for development of a modern urban environment with entrepreneurs committed to over 3billion dollars of investment in the immediate area of TCC and the Tampa Riverwalk. This area is comprised of additional amenities such as the Amalie Arena, Sparkman Wharf / Channelside Entertainment District, Harbour Island, many new downtown residential units, along with more under construction and additional development already slated.  

The mission of the TCC is to provide outstanding facilities and services to our customers generating a positive experience. Additionally, through the hosting of conventions that bring in multiple room night visitors, the TCC looks to maximize the economic opportunities for the City of Tampa. It is the goal of the Convention Center to secure, enhance, and increase business while providing an environment that will create opportunities for repeat clients of the venue.  

The Tampa Convention Center is located directly on the waterfront in the heart of downtown Tampa.  The Center offers state-of-the-art technology services to compete with facilities throughout the nation.   The venue covers over two city blocks, featuring 2,000+ feet of waterfront access.  The facility has over 600,000 gross square feet with 200,000 square feet of exhibit space, divisible into three contiguous halls. The ballrooms combine to create 36,000 square feet with banquet seating of 3,600 or space for 4,100 guests. TCC has 36 meeting rooms that offer over 42,000 square feet of flexible space.   TCC has 19 restrooms and two show offices.  We have recently upgraded meeting rooms, ballrooms, restrooms and all food & beverage cafés and restaurants. There is a large capital expansion project to expand the meeting and convention spaces by 20,000 sq ft to be completed by summer 2023.  

The center has two sets of boat docks with utilities situated on a seawall that borders the Bay and the Hillsborough River.  The south set of docks is home to several businesses that offer water related activities to the public. Adjacent to the waterfront is the Sail Pavilion and entertainment plaza that boasts a 360degree water view including Big Rays Fish Camp restaurant, restrooms, and a large plaza area completely outfitted for events and concerts.  

The facility hosts approximately 300 event days annually and boasts attendance of around 300,000 a year.  Events held at TCC include banquets, conventions, trade shows, conferences, meetings, corporate functions, sporting events, and consumer shows.  Floor diagrams of the Convention Center and any additional information about the facility can be viewed on-line at: http://www.thetampacc.com. Additional views, map, and surrounding areas may be viewed at: https://www.visittampabay.com/meeting-planners/book-meeting-convention/convention-center/  The facility operates 24-hours a day, 365-days a year.  

 Developing Themes and Areas of Primary Content  

The subject matter, or content for the artwork, is open. However, content should relate, be in context, and have appropriateness to its location. Interest has been expressed for artwork that addresses the region, quality of light and environment, as well as the cultural heritage, diversity, and traditions of the area. Regional artists are encouraged to apply.  

Opportunity: Purchase of Existing Artwork  

There are multiple locations within the Tampa Convention Center that are being considered for artwork. Opportunities are mostly for two-dimensional work, of varying sizes, though some sculpture and suspended artworks may be considered. All artwork should be crafted from materials that can endure a public environment. 

Artist Scope 

The Artist: 

• Is expected to work with city staff and design team on timeline schedules
• may be asked to deliver artwork
• may be asked to prepare artwork for installation in a specific location or on a specific surface
• will be asked to prep & wrap artwork for shipping, if relevant
• may be asked to have a studio visit by city staff with members of the selection committee
• may be asked to consider a commission of new work

Anticipated Project Schedule (This schedule is subject to change)

All materials received: May 13, 2022 

• Notification of artist/s: 3Q 2022
• Artist contract + scope of service 4Q 2022
• Artists’ Artwork Deliver 1Q 2023
• Artwork installation completed 2Q 2023*

(* depending on the construction schedule of the Tampa Convention Center) 

Selection Process 

Existing Artwork submitted will be prioritized by the selection committee. The City reserves the right to see the Artwork in person prior to purchase.  

Application Requirements

Artists must supply the following materials to complete an application: 

1.Contact Information, including website 

2. Work Samples – up to five images of existing works of art to be considered for purchase for the Tampa Convention Center. 

• Images should include the title of the piece in the file name.
• Please list the title, dimensions, medium, price of the artwork, and weight, if necessary.
• Submitted images must not include matting or frame.
• Be sure your images are right-side-up.

3. Resume - a current professional resume (limit to three pages), emphasizing professional Public Art experience and/or experience in working with public agencies.   

Do not submit a proposal for a new commission with your application. Artist who submit proposals will be disqualified and their submission will not be reviewed.  

Questions pertaining to application process may be emailed to: arts@tampagov.net  

Regional Artists are encouraged to apply 

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility: 

These opportunities are open to professional artists with experience executing their ideas from concept to completion, meeting a specified budget and timeframe, working in the public realm with public agencies. All professional artists will be considered; regional artists are encouraged to apply.