Request for Proposals (RFP):  Nashville Tree Project

Nashville Tree Foundation (NTF), in collaboration with Metro Parks and Metro Arts, is seeking experienced artists and artist teams to give ash trees in Nashville parks a new life.  Ash trees comprise approximately 10% of Nashville’s total tree canopy and are under threat from the emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle. The sculpture project will help raise awareness to the pending loss of these trees.

This RFP seeks an experienced artist (or artist team) to turn the tree into a sculpture:  beautiful, original, unique works of art that will become a distinguishing feature in the neighborhood. The approach can be additive and/or subtractive. The trees will be approximately 10-25 ft. tall and may include main side branches. This exhibition is modeled after the Chicago Tree Project; past and current projects can be viewed at www.chicagotreeproject.org.  

NTF will provide the tree/site scaffold and a fence around the site during construction for a two week period (artists may apply for an extension). Due to the condemned nature of the tree, Metro Parks and NTF reserve the right to remove it at their discretion. The sculptures will be regularly inspected for structural integrity and will be removed when deemed unsafe. The hope is that sculptures will remain in place for at least 18 months.

Application Requirements

You may propose one concept; the proposal can (but does not have to) be specific to one of the selected trees. Images of selected trees can be viewed HERE. If the concept is not specific to a particular tree, the selected artist will be notified of an available tree that matches their concept drawing.  

For this RFP, each artist should submit qualifications that address projects of similar scale. We are looking for evidence that the artist is comfortable working with the appropriate equipment and at heights required for this project. Selected artists must follow safety criteria and are encouraged to complete a scaffolding safety course.  Liability insurance must also be in place while working on the project. 

Eligibility Criteria

Please keep in mind the following:

Your approach will not compromise the structural integrity of the tree.

Objects created will not help people to climb the trees or cause attached objects to fall or need maintenance.

Before you work on the tree, any branches less than 8” in diameter will get cut, as well as any branches that extend 6’ beyond the trunk of the tree.

The sculptures will be located in public parks; subject matter should be appropriate for all ages.

Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from local history and culture and/or the role of trees in our shared environment(s).

Please note in your proposal if there is an opportunity for community volunteers to assist in the execution of your concept. (optional)

Stipend: $3,500 all inclusive ($500 paid when on-site work commences, balance paid on completion of the tree sculpture and all other contractual obligations)

NTF will have professional photographs taken of the completed sculptures. Artists will be given use of the images.

Application deadline: January 15, 2022, 11:59pm CST

**Submit a maximum of 6 digital images.  At least one of the images should be a mock-up/drawing of your proposed tree sculpture.  Other images should be samples of relevant past work.  It should be clear which images are of your proposal as opposed to past work.**