City of Kitchener invites proposals for new public art at Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex

The City of Kitchener has launched a call for expressions of interest for a new piece of public art at the Kitchener indoor recreation complex. Artists and artist teams are invited to submit proposals for artwork reflecting the core priorities of the Kitchener indoor recreation complex design and facility concept, which are recreation, diversity and sustainability.

The selected artwork will create a focal point at one or more entryways to the new multi-purpose recreation facility, with artists given three location options to propose artworks that reflect one or more of the three themes. With both interior and exterior location options for proposals and a commission of $300,000 available, the call for expressions of interest represents the City’s largest-ever public art competition and a rare opportunity within a major civic construction project. The City encourages applications from all artists and highly encourages applications from individuals from equity deserving groups.

The call for expressions represents a significant investment in Kitchener’s public art collection, funded through the City’s percent-for-art policy. This policy produces artworks for public spaces with the goal to support communities, cultures and artists; represent a diverse community; and improve the quality of life for all residents.

Interested artists or artist teams have until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 4 to apply. Applications can be submitted through the City’s online form, in-person delivery or mail.

The City will be holding an optional information session to answer questions about the Kitchener indoor recreation complex public art competition. The session will be held at Kitchener City Hall on Thursday, September 12 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

To learn more about the Kitchener indoor recreation complex public art competition, submission requirements and for any questions about the opportunity, visit www.kitchener.ca/KIRCPublicArt

More information on the Kitchener indoor recreation complex is available at kitchener.ca/KIRC