Public Art
PROJECT BUDGET
A commission not to exceed $65,000 has been approved for approximately 1056 square feet Wall Mural outdoors opposite Barnes and Noble on lower level at the Danbury Fair Mall.
PROJECT LOCATION
Danbury Fair Mall, 7 Backus Ave., Danbury CT – opposite Barnes & Noble outdoor courtyard on lower level entrance; to cover 1056 square feet total wall space: (1) large EIFS-like wall facing parking lot; (2) brick walls underneath staircase. See attached photos.
Calling all Muralists to Beautify Danbury Fair Mall with Vibrant Outdoor Murals!
Request for Proposals
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut (The Alliance) and Danbury Fair Mall are inviting artists or artist teams to submit proposals for creating and installing large outdoor murals at 7 Backus Ave., Danbury, CT. The chosen artist or team will receive a contract from The Alliance for the design and implementation of the Mural. The selected artist or team will handle all costs including artist fees, insurance, fabrication, installation, site preparation, permits, travel, meetings with The Alliance staff if required, contingencies, and any other associated incidental costs. The wall(s) are “as is”. Any prep needed is included in the pricing of the bid.
THEME
Legacy Threads: A nod to Danbury Fair’s past and long lasting connection to community with a strong contemporary feel.
The mural’s central theme intertwines Danbury Fair’s diverse history, its lively present, and prospects for the future. Fundamentally, evoke nostalgia for the iconic Danbury Fair, reflecting its connection with the community’s past and present. It will encourage viewers to honor a shared heritage while embracing Danbury Fair’s ever-evolving presence. The contemporary color scheme is vibrant, uplifting, and attention-grabbing, fostering engagement.
ELIGIBILITY
This project is open to applicants In CT and NY regardless of race, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, or disability. Teams of artists are welcome to apply. Artists who live or work in Western Connecticut, Putnam, Rochester, and Westchester counties in NY are
strongly encouraged to apply. Incomplete or late submissions will be deemed ineligible and will not be considered.
DESIRED OUTCOME
- Incorporate the project theme to revitalize outdoor space for the Danbury Fair community to gravitate to.
- Function as a visible and memorable landmark for the property
- The artwork must be safe, durable for outdoors, and appropriate for the project site.
- The artwork must conform to all applicable policies, including building and sign codes.
TIMELINE
| June 14, 2024 | Call to Artists (RFP) issued |
| June 21, 2024, 1 PM -2PM | Pre-bid site inspection – highly recommended (registration req.) |
| June 25, 2024, 10 AM – 11 AM | Optional Information session – not mandatory (registration req.) |
| July 26, 2024, 5:00 PM | RFP Deadline |
| July 31, 2024 | Selection Panel preliminary review |
| August 2, 2024 | Presentations & Selection Panel evaluations; final selection |
| August 6, 2024 | Applicants notified of decision |
| Early August 2024 | Due date for W-9 and signed agreements with The Alliance |
| Early- Mid August 2024 | Optional onsite meeting, not mandatory |
| Late September/Oct 2024 | Installation |
| * Subject to change. | |
SELECTION PROCESS
SELECTION PANEL
The selection panel includes project stakeholders representing the Danbury Fair Mall and The Alliance.
- The Panel will convene July 31st to conduct a preliminary review of all eligible proposals to the RFP.
- Selected artists will be invited to present their proposals to the panel on August 2nd. Following this evaluation, the Selection Panel will make recommendations for final selection, or make recommendations for alterations for final selection, or may recommend that the RFP be reopened.
Evaluation criteria include:
Artistic Excellence
- The quality of the artists’ works of art, creative process, level of professionalism
- Appropriateness and safety of proposed artwork for project site
- Adherence to application requirements
Artistic Merit
- Artwork’s level of visibility, engagement, memorable impact, and durability
- Artwork’s value and ability to address project theme and desired outcomes
- The ability to carry out the project based on, appropriateness of the budget, clarity of activities, resources needed, and qualifications of artist(s) involved
Visual Art in Work Places has it’s rewards.
We are accepting applications for solo art exhibitions at two locations: Hancock Hall and Connecticut Institute for Communities.
2D & small sculpture works only.
Engage more with your staff, clients, visitors.
Hancock Hall specializes in Short-Term Rehab, Long-Term Care, and Respite Care. They provide a broad range of assistive and rehabilitative services, 24 hours a day. We’ve been partners for years providing a rotating visual art exhibit for the facility. A rewarding experience for employees, residents, visitors, and participating artists. Photo: (2022) Diana Gubbay, Artist; Adrienne Thompson, Matt Knickerbocker
Integrate the arts to reflect an inclusive work environment and diversity.
Connecticut Institute for Communities (CIFC) is an important service provider supporting the healthcare needs of low-income children in greater Danbury, while offering residency programs for graduate medical education. We love their commitment to integrate the arts through the lens diversity and inclusion. Video: “A Mindful Path Home” Art Exhibit (2022) Dedan Davenport, Artist
Past Projects
Sculpture adds to the experience.
Perched on a hilltop in the Sandy Hook section of Newtown, Aquila’s Nest Vineyards is an innovative family-owned winery, tasking room and event venue. We partnered with the winery in 2021/2022 and presented outdoor sculptural exhibits at this stunning space.
An 1800 Square Foot Wall Mural at Danbury Fair
The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut and Danbury Fair Mall engaged artists for a large-scale mural installation at 7 Backus Ave. The opportunity attracted artists from CT, NY, NJ, MA, and other parts of the country.
Jobs for Artists and Arts Organizations
We teamed with Art in Common of Ridgefield to expand the mural project at Danbury Fair Mall. Six permanent but moveable mural canvases to showcase local and aspiring artists.
Sculpture Downtown Danbury
The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut and CityCenter Danbury worked together for a site-specific featured artwork for 30 Crosby Street, Danbury, CT.
Supported by
