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Call for Submissions from Indigenous Artists: Mural Project for 2025 Canada Summer Games

In Partnership with The City of St. John’s
Deadline: Friday, September 27, 1pm NST

First Light is seeking proposals from Indigenous artists for a large mural (approximately 8’x15’) that will be created in the interior of a new building by the City of St. John’s, to commemorate the 2025 Canada Summer Games in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. First Light is coordinating the proposal process, but the final decision will be made by staff of the City of St. John’s.

THEME AND CONTENT
The theme of the mural is “Welcome”. The design must incorporate the word “welcome” in different languages of Newfoundland and Labrador, including:

  • Mi’kmaq – Pjila’si
  • Innu-aimun – Tshima Minu Takushinieku
  • Inuktitut – Atelihai
  • English – Welcome
  • French – Bienvenue

It is expected that artists will draw inspiration from their individual cultures for their design and art style. We also ask that artists consider this goal for the final art piece: To inspire a feeling of inclusiveness and welcoming for all who enter, regardless of background. Committee members have expressed interest in designs that are minimalist. Focus for the piece should be on the words themselves, and any additional designs should be to enhance the words, not overshadow them.

In short: Less is more!

Artists may submit up to 3 designs for consideration. Artists are also encouraged to include their thoughts as to whether they are willing to take suggestions for minor edits to the design to suit the space, existing colour schemes/themes within the building, or other unforeseen considerations that develop as the building itself nears completion in Spring 2025.

NATURE OF THE WORK
Applications for murals that are painted directly onto the wall will be prioritized. These applications should include information about the artist’s need for scaffolding, ladders, or any other equipment that may have safety implications. Proposals will not be penalized for additional costs related to health, safety, or accommodations.

Digital designs intended for high-resolution printing on wallpaper or other applique styles may also be considered. Any submissions for digital artwork should include details of the production and installation process of the digital work, as well as any additional costs related to the process. Artists should also include any relevant notes on the durability of the products used, any special instructions for cleaning, or care of the mural, as well as typical lifespan of any atypical materials used. Artists submitting applications for digital artworks will be responsible for the successful installation of their work based on the processes outlined in their application.

Free-hanging, pre-existing, and 3D artworks will not be considered for this particular opportunity. Artists will be expected to follow Health and Safety Guidelines as outlined by the City of St. John’s while working in this space.

BUDGET
Applicants are invited to quote artist fees between $20 – $60 per square foot, depending on the intricacy of the design and experience of the artist. Artists may also include a supplies budget of up to $500 (+HST). Budgets that exceed these amounts may be considered, with reasonable explanation.

Submissions will be reviewed by the Arts and Recreation team at First Light, who will work together to create a “short list” of ten applications. The shortlisted applications will then be sent to a panel consisting of representatives from the City of St. John’s, Canada Games Host Society, MUN, and others, who will work together to select the successful applicant.

Deadline for submissions is Friday, September 27, 2024, at 1PM Newfoundland Standard Time. The successful applicant will be chosen by the end of November, 2024. All applicants will be contacted, whether or not they are successful. Terms of the contract will be negotiated in the fall of 2024. The installation or painting of the mural will take place in Spring 2025, at a time mutually agreed upon by the City of St. John’s and the artist. All work must be completed by the end of May 2025, on dates mutually agreed upon between the artist and building staff. The current goal is for this new building to open in June 2025.

ELIGIBILITY

  • All Indigenous visual artists in the St. John’s Metro Area are invited to apply.
  • Applications from Indigenous artists from outside of St. John’s Metro Area may be considered, depending on the feasibility of travel costs combined with project costs outlined in the individual proposal.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Submissions must include:

  • A brief description of your intention for the artwork (max 250 words)
  • A brief description of your practice and interests (max. 500 words)
  • A brief bio that includes information about your artistic practice, and community connection/affiliation (max 250 words)
  • Concept sketches or designs for the proposed mural (max 3 designs per applicant)
  • An example of previous work. You may include a link to video clips with accompanying descriptions (max. 10 min)
  • Confirmation of your ability to complete the finalized work within the above timeline
  • A budget for the entire project including a breakdown for Artist Fee, materials and supplies, installation costs (for digital designs), travel (including mileage, hotel, per diem, etc), rentals of scaffolding or other safety-related equipment, assistant painter fees if required, or any other expenses not noted above

First Light is dedicated to the strengthening and revitalization of Indigenous arts and culture. We encourage applications from contemporary and traditional Indigenous artists, art groups, clubs, businesses, LGTBQ2S+ artists, disabled artists, collaborators, and artist collectives. We aim to be as accessible as possible, and will do our best to accommodate your individual needs.

Information sessions with opportunity for open dialogue and specific questions will be scheduled on Google Meet in Late August, 2024.

Deadline to submit: Friday, September 27, 1pm Newfoundland Time.

Please send queries and applications to [email protected] and indicate “Canada Summer Games Mural Design” in the subject line. First Light Staff are happy to discuss individual applications in advance, read drafts, and advise on budgets as required.