City of Hamilton seeking Artist Submissions for King William Street Public Art and Retractable Gate Project

Hamilton, ON –  The City of Hamilton is seeking submissions through Thurs. Feb. 27th from artists or artist-led teams for a permanent public art work at the corner of King William St. and James St. N.

The new public art should be a landmark that signifies the entrance to the King William Street district and expresses the character of this evolving area, both day and night, to those visiting the street and passing on James Street inviting them to take part in local events and patronize local businesses.

The art work will replace an existing light standard so may be illuminated and shall incorporate a retractable street closure feature or gate to allow for the temporary closure of King William Street to vehicles for special events.

Up to six artists will be shortlisted by a citizen jury that includes artists and downtown stakeholders. They will base their decision on the artist’s response to the competition goals, artistic excellence, public comments and technical feasibility.

Shortlisted artists will be invited to submit detailed proposals, for which they will receive a $2,500 honorarium. Structural and electrical engineers, hired by the City of Hamilton, will be available to advise shortlisted artists to ensure their proposals are feasible.

One artist or artist-led team will be awarded $115,000 if their proposal is selected and installed.

This project is an excellent opportunity for artists to work with engineers and City staff on a functional art work and contribute to the dynamic King William Street district.” - Ken Coit, Manager, Placemaking, Public Art and Projects

Quick facts

• Submissions are due Thurs. Feb. 27, 2020 at 3 pm
• A non-mandatory Artist Information Session will be held Mon. Jan. 27, 2020 5:30 pm at Tourism Hamilton’s Visitor Centre 28 James Street North
• Artists should review all material on-line before making a submission.
• Public consultation for shortlisted artists’ proposals is planned for this spring and installation of the permanent public art work is anticipated for the fall of 2020.
• This project is funded in part by the contributions of local developers working in the Downtown Hamilton Community Improvement Area to the Downtown Hamilton Public Art Reserve.
• The City defines public art as art created by artists, or in collaboration with artists, through a public process and existing on publicly owned and accessible property. Public art helps strengthen the city’s visual identity, stimulates the economy, and enhances tourism and community pride.
• Since 2010, the City’s public art program has received over 500 artist proposals, consulted with over 8300 members of the public and awarded 53 public art commissions.

Additional resources

www.hamilton.ca/publicart
Email: [email protected] or call 905-546-2424 Ext. 7877