Call Description

The Tasting Room at OCCC—RFQ

Orange County Convention Center, West Building

9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

Submission Deadline: 11:59pm May 20, 2025 (mid-night MT)

Finalist Design Stipend:  $100

Commission:  $9,700

Installation:  On or before July 15, 2025

Project Description

Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the Public Art Review Board, is seeking submissions from one or more qualified artists or artist teams to develop artwork for “The Tasting Room” at the Orange County Convention Center. The proposed artwork should incorporate themes related to food preparation, chef imagery, and the Convention Center’s hydroponic gardens. Including imagery of Chef K would be considered a plus; however, general chef-related visuals focused on food preparation are also acceptable.

“The Tasting Room” is a contemporary, stylish space inviting guests to experience the culinary expertise of Chef K and his dedicated team. Visitors can explore the venue's modern design while considering catering options for upcoming events.

The selected artist(s) will be commissioned to create a site-specific horizontal artwork approximately 9’8” x 5’3”, to be installed on canvas or other approved materials. The design should take into account the space below the artwork to ensure adequate clearance for the display of food and beverages. Please include the size of framing in the overall measurements of the artwork.

Background

Since its beginning in 1983 the Orange County Convention Center has become a leader in the meeting and events industry and has cultivated an impressive art collection that features creators from multiple disciplines with one common focus—Florida’s vast flora and fauna.

The Orange County Convention Center is in the heart of Orlando’s tourism corridor within minutes of Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World. They are proud to be known as “The Center of Hospitality” and as a world-class award-winning convention facility, hosting some of the most dynamic regional, national, and international conventions, meetings, and trade shows. On average, the Convention Center hosts approximately 1.5 million visitors annually.

Site and Specifications (Tasting Room Design Plans)

The Tasting Room is situated within the Center’s West Building, off the Central Lobby and will be accessible for site visits by artists chosen to develop site-specific proposals.

• Site specific portable artwork (excluding murals)
• Maximum dimensions of 9’8” x 5’3” horizontal (including frame)
• Featuring food prep, chef imagery, and hydroponic gardens
• Featuring Chef K is a bonus

Budget

$9,700 has been approved for artwork.  The selected artist(s) or team(s) will be awarded a comprehensive contract (or contracts).  The artist will be responsible for artwork design, fabrication, materials, insurance, travel, transport, public presentations, meetings with Orange County staff as necessary, and all related incidental expenses.

The installation costs and identification plaque will be covered by Orange County.

Selection Process

A selection panel consisting of the project manager, stakeholders and art professionals will review artists’ qualifications.  Several artists will be selected to provide proposals and will be paid a stipend of $100 each for their proposal.  Final artist(s) selection will take place after review of the proposals.  The Arts & Cultural Affairs Public Art Project Coordinator serves as a non-voting Chair of the Selection panel.

The Public Artist Selection Panel and Orange County reserve the right to reject any or all applications, proposals, applicants, or projects, and to modify or terminate the application process or the selection process for any reason and without prior notice.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to professional artists working in any appropriate media.  Student artists may apply if they can secure an experienced public artist to serve as a mentor to oversee their work.

Selection Criteria

Artists will be evaluated on artistic excellence as evidenced by submitted materials; professional experience; compatibility with the architectural design, facility environment and values of the county and this particular community.

Application Requirements

• Experience with public art projects with a similar budget is not required but helpful.
• Professional resume (teams must submit resumes for each member).
• Letter of interest, outlining interest in the project and a preliminary statement of approach.
• A minimum of one (1) image is required, and the maximum is 5. Images of finished works or conceptual drawings can be submitted. If images submitted are not of a completed public artwork, provide additional information to assure the Selection Panel of ability to realize a public art project and that it will be completed and installed as designed.
• Selected artists must complete the W-9 Vendor Registration Form and will receive payments by check.

Timeline:

• Call Release: Friday, April 25, 2025
• Applications Due: 11:59pm Tuesday, May 20, 2025 (mid-night MT)
• Finalists Selection: Tuesday, May 27, 2025
• Artist Notification: On or before May 28, 2025
• Proposals Due: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
• Proposal Review: 10:30am Wednesday, June 18, 2025
• Notification of Acceptance: On or before June 19, 2025
• Installation: On or before July 15, 2025

Contact

For further information contact Dawn R. Knight, Public Art Project Coordinator, Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs. Dawn.Knight@ocfl.net, 407-836-5540.

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The mission of Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs:  "To elevate Central Florida’s arts and culture to that befitting a diverse world-class community."

About Orange County Government: Orange County Government strives to serve its residents and guests with integrity, honesty, fairness and professionalism. Located in Central Florida, Orange County includes 13 municipalities and is home to world-famous theme parks, one of the nation’s largest convention centers and a thriving life science research park. Seven elected members make up the Board of County Commissioners, including the Mayor, who is elected countywide. For more information, please visit www.OCFL.net or go to Orange County Government’s social media channels.

Application Requirements

• Experience with public art projects with a similar budget is not required but helpful.
• Professional resume (teams must submit resumes for each member).
• Letter of interest, outlining interest in the project and a preliminary statement of approach.
• A minimum of one (1) image is required, and the maximum is 5. Images of finished works or conceptual drawings can be submitted. If images submitted are not of a completed public artwork, provide additional information to assure the Selection Panel of ability to realize a public art project and that it will be completed and installed as designed.
• Selected artists must complete the W-9 Vendor Registration Form and will receive payments by check.

Eligibility Criteria

This opportunity is open to professional artists working in any appropriate media. Student artists may apply if they can secure an experienced public artist to serve as a mentor to oversee their work.