Scope

The Thornton Arts, Sciences and Humanities Council (TASHCO), in collaboration with the city of Thornton are seeking to commission public art in the form of four pollinator habitats, structures or spaces that provide shelter for a specific pollinator species.

These habitats will be installed in pollinator gardens located in each city ward. The selected artist will research, design, build and install species-specific habitats. The city of Thornton's Parks and Open Space Divisions will work with the selected artist to identify native species of plants that support the design of each pollinator habitat. Staff will select, plants and maintain the space in the pollinator garden surrounding each habitat.

This work is intended to be a semi-permanent addition to the Thornton public art collection and parks environments. The city of Thornton reserves the right to remove any artworks for any reason, at any time.

Objectives and Key Themes

This is an opportunity to create public art that will create a positive impact on all who visit city parks and open spaces.  Artists are encouraged to think “outside the box” to create work that speaks to the topic. Successful proposals will demonstrate a unique and creative interpretation of the space(s) in addition to the following:

·         Functional value: work must be well researched in order to meet the biological needs of a specific pollinator species.

·         Educational value: work should engage residents on themes such as the importance of pollinators, environmental protection, and/or Thornton ecosystems.

·         Dynamic use of color, composition and style elements that create a visual impact.

·         Interdisciplinary practice with an emphasis on creative and innovative materials as well as technology.  

·         Holistic approach to place-making and (re)activation of a physical space.

·         Strong understanding of contemporary art and its positive effect on public space and community identity.

·         Understanding of the specialized needs and materials for durable, outdoor public art work.  Materials must withstand potential vandalism, while remaining non-toxic to wildlife. 

·         Understanding of the diversity and unique character that make the city of Thornton a special place to live, work, and play.

Eligibility

*Updated to national call*
This project is open to all artists, design teams, architectural firms, etc., age 18 and over, regardless of race, sex,  color, religion, national origin, gender identity, age, military status, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability.

Preference will be given to those with a proven history of fabrication and installation that meet the project scope. 

 City of Thornton employees are not eligible.

Guidelines

·         The movement, safety and security of visitors is priority.

·         The artwork will be outside and exposed to the elements. It must be able to withstand the constantly changing weather conditions of Colorado. These conditions may include a wide fluctuation in temperature and intense, direct sunlight.  

·         Materials used must be durable and require little and/or easy maintenance.  

·         Design should be pleasing and add beauty to the community.   

·         Design cannot contain business promotions or advertisements. 

·         Design cannot include any breach of intellectual property, brands, trademarks, or depictions of illegal activities. 

·         Artists do not need to include the city of Thornton logo in their design.  

·         Artists are encouraged to explore unique imagery, themes and materials.  

·         The design must be family-friendly.

Budget

The project budget is $15,000, which is inclusive of artist fees and project costs associated with fabrication, transportation, shipping, installation, insurance, etc.   

This project is made possible through funding provided by the Adams County Open Space Sale Tax.  The Open Space Sales Tax was approved by Adams County voters in 1999 as a 1/5 of one percent sales tax authorized through 2006. In 2004, voters approved an increase to ¼ of one percent, or 25 cents on a $100 purchase, and extended the sales tax through 2026.  Proceeds from the sales tax benefit parks, recreation, trails, and open space projects countywide.
 

Selection

All eligible submissions will be reviewed by project stakeholders which may include community members, artists, and/or city staff. TASHCO will present work for formal approval to Thornton City Council. Finalists will be notified upon final approval by Thornton City Council. After all approvals are met the award winner will begin to enter contracts and purchasing agreements with the city of Thornton.

Locations and Footprint

Habitat dimensions will be at least 2' x 2' x 3' and not exceed 4' x 4' x 6'.

One pollinator habitat will be installed at a pollinator gardens in each ward. For a detailed RFP, project summary, site location and images please click the following link: https://bit.ly/2xJIwmd

Submissions

 By submitting your materials in response to this project RFP, you are agreeing to abide by all terms and conditions imposed by Weststaf for use of CAFÉ (callforentry.org). You agree to indemnify and hold harmless the City of Thornton for any claim, cause of action, lawsuit and/or damages related to your use of CAFÉ for this RFP.  

 Incomplete and/or submissions that do not meet the scope of this project will not be accepted. Please ensure you have read all submission guidelines carefully before applying.

Submissions must include the following:

·         Resume/CV

·         4 - 10 images of your work demonstrating your ability to meet the scope of this project, specifically, researching, and creating species-specific pollinator habitats. Descriptions of each image that include artwork materials and dimensions.
·         A statement of intent that outlines your interest in this project and demonstrates your ability to collaborate with Thornton Parks to create habitats that meet the biological needs of pollinators.

The finalist will be asked to submit the following:

•   Final designs
•   Itemized budget
•  Implementation schedule  
•  Project narrative  
• Materials list (including supplier information) 
• Warranty information  
• Maintenance information (including procedures, timeline and estimated city costs) 
• Contractors (if any) 
• Liability Insurance

Please submit all materials on callforentry.org.

COVID-19 

Due to the impact of COVID-19, all timelines and budgets for this, and other public art projects are subject to change. These changes will be determined by City Council. Staff will communicate any changes or delays to applicants as the information becomes available. All efforts are being made to continue supporting creative expression and artists. We thank you for your understanding and patience as we navigate these challenging times.

Additional Questions?

Please contact Jesse Jimenez, Arts & Culture Coordinator jesse.jimenez@ThorntonCO.gov or

720-977-5881.

Application Requirements

Eligibility Criteria