Arts Services Inc. of Western New York (ASI), on behalf of Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera’s Office, invites artists in all appropriate mediums (2-dimensional and 3-dimensional) from throughout Western New York to submit proposals for an indoor public art project located inside the Isaías González-Soto Library.
This call is limited to artists living within the 5 counties of Western New York, including Erie, Niagara, Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua.
Project Background and Goals
In October 2018, the Niagara Branch Library was renamed the Isaías González-Soto Branch to honor the founding father of Buffalo’s Puerto Rican community. Isaías González-Soto, born in 1921, served in World War II and moved to Buffalo in 1950. He was active in many Hispanic organizations, owned a grocery store, and helped newly arrived Puerto Ricans with housing, food, jobs, and legal assistance. He also worked for the City of Buffalo and hosted a Spanish language radio show.
The Isaías González-Soto Branch, located at 280 Porter Ave on Buffalo’s West Side, will be reopening with a completely renovated and updated space for all community members to use. ASI is seeking artists to submit proposals for an indoor mural celebrating its re-opening. Artists can choose to create one cohesive mural or tell a story through different murals on various walls.
Proposed design should:
- Encapsulate the local community, including historical references and contributions.
- Cover the entire wall spaces provided (Dimensions detailed in full call for work).
- Have an expected lifespan of 3-5 years.
Budget
Budget
A commission of up to $10,000 is available for the chosen artist to create and install their work.
Artists are required to provide all supplies and materials to complete the work, including a scissor lift, if needed. The Library may be able to arrange storage options on site if needed. Please include any and all requests in artist proposal. Artist should detail what assistance or materials are provided by his/her/themself and what may be required by the Library in their proposal (if applicable).
Timeline
- Deadline to Submit: No later than 5 pm on Wednesday, October 9, 2024
- October: Selection of Artist
- October/Early November: Public Announcement of Selection
- October/Early November: Mural implementation & Planning Meetings; completed and installed work
The timeline will adhere to building status and preparation (if needed) to complete the mural when appropriate. NOTE: the Library is currently under construction and is not open to the public.
Proposals should include
- A description of the work including materials and dimensions;
- Sketches of the work
- A budget including artist fees, supplies and materials, and any other costs associated to create the work
- Links to examples of past work
- Contact information (including email, phone, and address)
Proposals should be sent electronically (in one PDF document) to [email protected] with the subject line ‘ Library Proposal’, as can questions. The Library is currently under construction and not open and available to the public, however if you would like more information on the space, please contact Samantha Purpora, Assistant Deputy Director, Buffalo Libraries, 716-858-7157 or [email protected]
Proposals are due no later than 5 pm on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.
A panel of qualified, arts and business professionals (including community members and those associated with the of the Library) will review proposals for their eligibility and appropriateness for the project.
