Call for Artists / Request for Qualifications (RFQ) Park West Public Art Project

Total Project Budget: $150,000

OVERVIEW:

The Peoria Arts & Culture Department invites artists and or artist teams to submit qualifications to be considered for a permanent public art opportunity located at  Park West in Peoria, Arizona. The final selected artist(s) will create a permanent art installation at the site. Artists working in the states of: Arizona, California, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and New Mexico; United States, who have experience designing, fabricating, and installing projects with a similar budget and scope, are encouraged to apply.

Peoria Arts & Culture is seeking to contract with an artist to design, fabricate, and install an artistic feature at Park West which is located at 9744 W Northern Ave, Peoria, AZ 85345. Peoria’s flagship lifestyle destination, blending shopping, dining, and entertainment into one vibrant experience. Anchored by a 14-screen Harkins Theatre, the center features a curated mix of over 30 tenants, including national brands to distinctive local retailers, wellness studios, indoor recreation, and a diverse culinary lineup–from upscale sit-down restaurants to casual eateries and quick bites.

Beyond retail, Park West fosters community connection through seasonal events, local markets, and family-friendly attractions like the splash pad, open daily during warmer months. The center’s beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces and generous parking make exploring its walkable, open-air layout both convenient and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to browse, dine, unwind, or celebrate, Park West offers experiences for everyone.

This public art project will be located near the entrance of Park West in Peoria, Arizona. Due to limited space within this open-air shopping destination, city staff have identified kinetic art as the best potential fit. While open to other forms of three-dimensional sculpture, kinetic art has been specifically identified as the perfect complement to be featured on the premises. An emphasis on complementing the existing aesthetic is also a project priority of this commission. Discussions with location management also underscore a shared preference for art that will incorporate motion. Consequently experience creating functional or interactive artwork is highly desired.

Kinetic sculpture includes, but is not limited to the following descriptions:

• Movement (as powered by different sources) is a basic element of the artwork.

• Movement is an integral part of the design of the artwork and not merely to impart movement to an already complete static object.

• Movement may be achieved by air currents, magnetism, electro-mechanical devices or by the participation of the spectators themselves.

WHAT TO EXPECT WITH THIS PROJECT:

The final selected work of art should:

• Be an original, site-specific treatment to public space that creates a sense of place in the proposed outdoor location, and attracts and welcomes visitors

• Be engaging and aesthetically pleasing to individuals of all ages and backgrounds

• Be fabricated from durable, low maintenance material that can withstand the outdoor elements and requires minimal maintenance

• Incorporate input from stakeholders and the Peoria community

• Strive for sustainability through utilization of natural power sources such as wind and/or solar lighting

Applications are due by Friday, November 14, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. MST (AZ)

BUDGET:

The total budget for this Public Art project is not to exceed $150,000. The selected artist will receive a design contract for $20,000 to develop site-integrated artwork and begin community engagement. If the design proposal is accepted, the artist will receive a subsequent contract of $120,000 to fabricate and install the artwork. Additionally, $10,000 will be withheld for administrative, conservation and other related project costs. Artists and artist teams should know that any proposal by a selected artist must undergo an extensive approval process which may include revision or modification through the city's Public Art Program and required city contracts. Please consider this approval process and contractual process and obligations when submitting qualifications. The process, fees and services are subject to negotiation based on proposed deliverables and must meet the city’s standards for public stewardship and must adhere to all city processes. Lastly, as a partnership project with Park West, there’s also certain criteria to be met and approved by Park West management throughout this project.

Submittal Requirements, Eligibility and Selection Criteria:

This Call for Artists is a Request for Qualifications by established professional artists residing and eligible to work in the United States and those who have been identified to submit application materials. Artists or artists teams will be rated on a total of 100 points, and will be required to submit the following information:

• Statement of Interest and Artist Resume

Description of the artist or artist team’s interest in the project including the proposed approach, style of artwork and relevant experience and background that qualifies you for this project. [Rating criteria: 30 points]

• Artist Portfolio

A minimum of six (6) and up to ten (10) samples of past work, including an annotated image list stating the title of the piece, commissioning body, project budget, date, medium and dimensions. [Rating criteria: 35 points]

• Prior Experience Working within the Public Sector

• List of public art projects conducted in the public sector
• Documentation of two or more public art commissions over $100,000 per project including a list of the materials costs, rates and other costs per referenced project.
• Provide a brief (no more than 200 words) narrative on public engagement process involved with each project. Artist or artist teams should have public outreach experience. References should include contact information on an individual’s name, title, organization, their role in the project scope, address, phone, and email address. [Rating criteria: 30 points]

• Estimated Project Schedule and Value-Added Offerings

Include an estimated schedule for completion of work for the proposed project and value-added offerings describing how the artist or artist team will provide the best value to the City of Peoria. Value-added offerings could include rates, specialized expertise, project management approach to increase efficiency, familiarity with the City of Peoria, designing art in a retail setting, or other ways you will ensure maximum value for dollars spent. [Rating criteria: 5 points]

EVALUATION:

The selection criteria shall include, but is not limited to the above professional qualifications of the artist/artist teams as evidenced by the supporting materials, proven ability to undertake projects of the described scope, artistic merit and superior caliber craftsmanship as evidenced by the images.

Application will close Friday, November 14, 2025, 11:59pm. No applications will be accepted after this time. Do not submit a project proposal or design at this time.

ANTICIPATED PROJECT SCHEDULE:

• October 1, 2025: RFQ Opens (Release the Call to Artists)
• November 15, 2025:  RFQ Closes (Artist submissions deadline)
• November - December 2025: Selection committee reviews submissions
• January 10, 2026: Finalist notifications (top three artists)
• February 1, 2026 Artist presentations and final selection
• February 15: Contract development 
• March 15, 2026: Approve Design
• April 1, 2026:  Execute artists agreement for fabrication, site prep, and Installation
• August 15, 2026: Installation
• TBD: Special event commemorating the art

*Schedule and timeline are subject to change.

Request for Qualifications: Light at Play
 

The City of Peoria, Arizona invites qualified artists to submit their credentials for Light at Play, a three-night celebration of illuminated and interactive public art taking place April 9–11, 2026.
 

Submission Opens: October 15, 2025

Submission Deadline: November 16, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. MST (AZ)


Qualifications:

Light at Play is an outdoor evening event in Downtown Peoria that transforms public spaces through illuminated and interactive art. Eligible projects must incorporate or be activated by light. Artists, designers, and multidisciplinary teams with experience in large-scale projection, immersive media, or illuminated three-dimensional installation and sculpture are encouraged to apply.
 

Examples Include (but are not limited to):

• Digital animation
• Motion graphics
• Projection mapping
• Interactive light art
• AR experiences
• LED sculpture
• Neon sculpture
• Kinetic light sculptures
   

Eligibility 

Eligible applicants include individual artists and collaborative teams residing in Arizona and the surrounding region (CA, CO, NM, NV, UT). Three-dimensional work will be considered only from Arizona-based artists at this time.
 

Desired Qualifications: 

• Work that demonstrates thoughtful concepts through a unique artistic vision.
• Strong understanding of storytelling and placemaking through light, motion, and technology.
• Demonstrated experience using digital projection at scale on architectural facades, murals, sculptural surfaces, or other built environments.
• Demonstrated ability developing interactive and immersive art for public settings.
• Proven ability to design and implement geotagged and WebAR/VPS-based AR experiences that are reliable and user-friendly.
• Proven functionality and durability of three-dimensional artwork in outdoor settings.

Phase I:

This is Phase I of a two-phase process. Phase I is a Request for Qualifications (RFQ); final concepts are not required at this stage, though applicants may optionally submit up to three ideas for consideration.
 

Phase I Application Requirements:

1. Qualifications: 

Artist Information: Artist or team name as well as contact details and website/socials.

Experience: A CV or equivalent that highlights your experience in projection, illuminated three-dimensional work, immersive media, or public art. PDF format only.

Artist Statement: Up to 300 words describing your artistic practice, including key concepts, themes, and materials. 

Portfolio: Provide examples of past work related to projection, illuminated three-dimensional work, or immersive media. For individual applicants submitting collaborative work samples, clearly indicate your role and contributions.

Option 1:

• Submit 5–10 images (300 DPI each) compiled into a single PDF file.
• Label each work sample with title, medium, dimensions, year.

Option 2:

• Submit up to five minutes of video, either as one reel or up to five one-minute clips, in .mov or .mp4 format.
• Each work must be labeled with a title card or listed in a supplemental PDF with title, medium, dimensions, year.

Option 3:

• Applicants may submit a combination of the above formats, provided the total does not exceed the allowable number of work samples (e.g., two minutes of video and three pages of image stills).
• Each work sample must be labeled with a title card or listed in a supplemental PDF with title, medium, dimensions, year.
   

2. Required Technical Questionnaire: Share detailed information on your approach, technical experience, and installation needs in order to give us a full understanding of the work you make and your production process. This questionnaire is mandatory; however, you are only required to complete the section(s) that apply to your artistic practice.
 

3. Optional Concept Proposal: Already have ideas for Light at Play? Applicants may upload up to three concept proposals, each supported by a sketch, mockup, or rendering (PDF format only). This step is optional and not required to apply for Phase I.
 

Evaluation Criteria: 

Applications will be reviewed by the Project Committee following the November 16 deadline. Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Portfolio Work Samples 
2. Technical Experience 
3. Artist Statement 
4. CV or Equivalent 
5. Public Art Experience 

Please Note:

• Incomplete or late submissions will not be accepted.
• Light at Play is a family-friendly event – artwork must be appropriate for all ages.
• All projects must remain accessible to the public for the full three-evening duration of this free event.
• (optional) Applicants may submit up to three concepts for consideration during Phase I.

Phase II:

Artists advancing to Phase II will be confirmed as participants in Light at Play and will be notified of this decision by December 15, 2025. During Phase II, artists will be required to submit detailed site-specific proposals—including renderings, budget, and installation requirements—to guide the final planning and implementation of their work. 

Budgets will generally range from $3,000–$20,000, with final amounts determined by artwork quality, site complexity, and the technological and logistical demands of the project. Budgets outside this range may be considered at the Project Committee’s discretion. While artists are required to submit a proposed project budget, final allocations will be determined by the City of Peoria and may differ from those proposed.

Artists will not be responsible for costs associated with event-provided equipment such as projectors, scaffolding, or lifts. Equipment supplied through the City of Peoria and its production partners will be available for use; however, new or specialized equipment will not be purchased to accommodate individual project needs. Artists may provide and operate their own equipment if preferred, provided it meets event safety and technical requirements.
 

Additional Information: 

• A Phase II packet with detailed guidance will be distributed to artists at the start of this phase. 
• Proposals may feature either new or existing original artwork, provided they align with event parameters.
• Phase II artists from outside Arizona are encouraged to be onsite for the event; however, they must also provide a remote installation option in their Phase II proposal.

Anticipated Project Milestone Timeline:

• October 15, 2025: Phase I artist submission opens.
• November 16, 2025: Phase I artist submission closes.
• December 15, 2025: Notify selected artists. Site locations assigned. 
• January 20, 2026: Phase II site design presentations. 
• February 23, 2026: Phase II virtual check-in or in-person site visit.
• March 30, 2026: Final Phase II virtual check-in.
• April 1-8, 2026: Onsite installation begins.
• April 9-11, 2026: Light at Play! 
• April 11-12, 2026: Artwork de-installed.

*Schedule and timeline are subject to change.

Reference:

A downloadable version of the Light at Play – Phase I: Call to Artists is available for your reference. This document includes event details, eligibility information, site map, and contact information.

Download the Light at Play Phase I: Call to Artists (PDF)

Call to Artists: Request for Qualifications (RFQ) | Public Art at Pinnacle Peak Safety Facility 

Total Project Budget: $225,000 

Applications are due by Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:59P.M. MST (AZ)

OVERVIEW:

The Peoria Arts & Culture Department invites artists and/or artist teams to submit qualifications to be considered for a permanent public art opportunity located at Pinnacle Peak Safety Facility 23100 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway in Peoria, Arizona. The final selected artist(s) will create a permanent art installation at the site. Artists living in and eligible to work in the United States, who have experience designing, fabricating, and installing projects with a similar budget and scope, are encouraged to apply.

ABOUT THE SAFETY FACILITY:

Opened in 2017, this 17,000-square-foot safety facility is part of an established campus that also houses patrol services, administration, training rooms, and community space. The facility includes a processing area, holding cells, evidence processing, interview rooms, tactical training, officer workspaces, briefing areas, a canine unit, fuel island, secure parking, and exterior break areas. The facility achieved LEED Gold Certification, fueling efforts towards a more sustainable future. The Peoria City Council’s Strategic Priority of “Public Safety” included investing in the safety of our first responders and community members. Now at Pinnacle Peak, the Peoria Police Real-Time Crime Center allows Peoria Police and Fire-Medical to access video footage from throughout the city to monitor real-time emergencies and events, investigations, community policing, and crime prevention.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

The selection committee is looking for a unique, one-of-a-kind, public art installation that is appropriate for placement in the public plaza leading up to the main entrance of the public safety facility. To ensure visibility from the roadway, the installation must be designed with appropriate scale, proportion, and illumination for both daytime and nighttime viewing. The incorporation of lighted elements within the artwork is greatly desired. The theme of the artwork does not need to be directly connected to public safety functions and imagery, but such connections will be equally considered in selection.
 

 The goals for the project include:

• Creating a unique visual component which complements the building’s aesthetics

• Increasing public awareness of art as part of daily life

• Broadening visitors’ perspectives of public spaces within the City of Peoria

The City of Peoria seeks the following:

• Artists with prior public art experience, specifically large-scale sculptural work in outdoor settings with extreme temperatures (up to 120 degrees in summer), demonstrating durability and sustainability in relation to environmental exposure.

• Artists who are willing to accept the project with the $225,000 commission which will cover all services from design through final installation, including artist fee, fabrication, insurance, transportation, travel fees, equipment, installation, and conservation fee.

• The selected artist or artist team will be expected to work with the community, City staff, and stakeholders to design the final artwork.

Final selection of one artist or artist team will be made by the Public Art Advisory Panel and the Peoria Arts and Culture Commission based on qualifications and the proposal.
 

Stakeholder comments:

Members of the Public Safety team were polled about their thoughts on public art for this location. When asked for words or phrases that embodied a theme, their responses included:

• Pride in Community and Country

• A Salute for Honor and Public Service

• Prompting Joy

WHAT TO EXPECT WITH THIS PROJECT:

The final selected work of art should:

• Be an original, site-specific artwork that enhances the public space, establishes a strong sense of place, and attracts and welcomes visitors to the outdoor location

• Be engaging and aesthetically pleasing to individuals of all ages and backgrounds

• Be fabricated from durable materials that withstand outdoor elements and require minimal ongoing maintenance

• Incorporate input from stakeholders and the Peoria community

• Strive for sustainability by prioritizing natural materials and solar-powered lighting

BUDGET:

The total budget for this Public Art project is not to exceed $225,000. The selected artist or artist team will first receive a $25,000 design contract to develop site-integrated artwork and begin community engagement. If the design proposal is accepted, a subsequent contract of $175,000 will be issued for fabrication and installation. An additional $25,000 will be reserved by the City for administrative, conservation, and other related project costs.

All proposals from selected artists or artist teams will be subject to an extensive approval process, which may involve revisions or modifications through the City’s Public Art Program and contract requirements. Please consider the required approval process and contractual obligations when submitting qualifications. The process, fees, and services are subject to negotiation based on proposed deliverables and must align with the city’s standards for public stewardship and all required City processes.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

This Call for Artists is a Request for Qualifications open to established professional artists residing in and eligible to work in the United States, including invited applicants. Artists or artist teams will be evaluated on a 100-point scale and must submit the following materials: 

1. Statement of Interest and Artist Resume/CV [Rating criteria: 30 points]

• Description of the artist or artist team’s interest in the project including the proposed approach, style of artwork, and relevant experience and background that qualifies you for this project. It is recommended that your statement includes an answer to the following question: “What draws you to this project?”

• A resume or CV (for each team member, when applicable) demonstrating relevant work experience and training. Please include a list of public art projects conducted in the public sector. 

2. Artist Portfolio [Rating criteria: 35 points]

• A minimum of six (6) and up to ten (10) samples of past work, including documentation of two or more public art commissions exceeding $100,000 per project.

• An annotated image list stating the title of the piece, commissioning body, project budget, date, medium, and dimensions. 

3. Prior Experience Working within the Public Sector [Rating criteria: 30 points]

• Provide a 200-word maximum narrative describing the public engagement process for each project. Artists or artist teams must demonstrate prior experience with public outreach. 

• Two professional references of individuals you worked with on public art. Please include: name, title, organization, address, phone number, email address, and the role they served in the project.

4. Value-Added Offerings [Rating criteria: 5 points]

• Please provide a brief description of any value-added offerings that demonstrate how the artist or artist team will provide the greatest benefit to the City of Peoria.

• Examples may include competitive rates, specialized expertise, project management strategies that increase efficiency, familiarity with the City of Peoria, experience designing art in public settings, or other approaches that ensure maximum value for project funds. 

EVALUATION:

The artist and artist teams will be selected based on the following criteria:

• Portfolio review

• Quality of concept, design, and craftsmanship of past works

• Visual and technical sophistication

• Creativity of approach demonstrated in past work

• Ability to produce durable outdoor art within available funding limits

• Ability to produce a strong reference list of project managers of past works

• Demonstrated situational awareness with sensitivity to project goals and community character

• Ability to communicate effectively

• Demonstrated ability to complete projects on time and within budget

• Ability to work effectively in a public environment with community members, project stakeholders, City staff, and other agencies while adhering to the established timeline

SELECTION PROCESS:

The selection criteria shall include, but is not limited to, the above professional qualifications of the artist/artist teams as evidenced by the supporting materials, proven ability to undertake projects of the described scope, artistic merit and superior caliber craftsmanship as evidenced by the images.

City staff will compile a short-list of qualified artists or artist teams for review and evaluation by the Public Art Advisory Panel. From this group, the highest-ranked finalists will be invited to participate in in-person or virtual interviews. Finalists will be asked to describe their past experiences and qualifications as they relate to this Call for Artists but are not expected to present design concepts or proposals at this stage. Following selection, the chosen artist or artist team will enter into a design agreement, during which time site-specific artistic proposals will be developed through site visits, interactions with City staff and the project team, and input from community stakeholders. Following approval, the artist or team will enter into a separate fabrication and installation contract before project implementation and fabrication may begin.

Application will close Monday, December 15, 2025, 11:59p.m. No applications will be accepted after this time. Do not submit a project proposal or design at this time.

 ANTICIPATED PROJECT SCHEDULE:

• November 1, 2025: RFQ Opens (Release the Call to Artists)

• December 15, 2025: RFQ Closes (Artist submissions deadline)

• December 2025 - January 2026: Selection committee reviews submissions

• January 30, 2026: Finalist notifications (top three artists)

• February 28, 2026 Artist presentations and final selection

• March 15: Execute artist agreement for design services

• May 15, 2026: Approve final design

• May 30, 2026:  Execute artist agreement for fabrication and Installation

• October 1, 2026: Installation begins

• TBD: Dedication ceremony for the public artwork

*Schedule and timeline are subject to change.