Call for Expressions of Interest: Public Art Commission 1967 East Hastings, Vancouver

Expression of Interest (EOI) for Public Art Commission
1967 East Hastings, Vancouver

Project Summary
We invite artists or artist teams to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for an exciting public art opportunity. The selected artwork will be integrated into multiple locations within the project site, enhancing the community and contributing to the cultural landscape.

Site & Building Description
The project is located at 1967 East Hastings Street in the vibrant and historically rich Grandview-Woodland neighborhood of Vancouver. Covering an area of 29,157 sq. ft., this development is a key part of a transit-oriented, family-friendly community. It features 136 market strata units with a floor area of 116,863 sq. ft. The surrounding neighborhood is known for its diverse cultural and commercial activities, making it a focal point for community engagement.

Art Opportunity
This public art opportunity is intended to foster community cohesion and cultural expression. The preferred site for the artwork is an urban plaza at the southeast corner of the project, offering high visibility from both East Hastings Street and Semlin Drive. This space is ideal for a large-scale art piece that resonates with both the local community and passersby, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the area. Artists are encouraged to develop concepts that are inclusive, reflective of the community, and accessible to a diverse audience.

Urban Room space presented above highlights the space for a sculptural work or an integrated work to the site within this area.

The site includes additional opportunities both in application to the building and utilizing aspects of its commercial retail frontage as highlighted below in red.

Artists are also encouraged to suggest other opportunities that may see fit to propose as they move forward through the selection process into Phase 2.

Historical Context
Grandview-Woodland, one of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods, has a history that dates back to the late 1800s, with its roots in the Squamish communities. The area has evolved through industrial and residential developments, especially after the 1891 completion of the interurban rail line. Characterized by historic architecture, the neighborhood is home to many early 20th-century homes and a strong tradition of cultural and artistic expression. The public art at this site will engage with this rich historical tapestry, inviting artists to create work that reflects the neighborhood’s diverse heritage.

Historical images of East Hastings over the past 125 years.

Indigenous Community and Learning
The Grandview-Woodland neighborhood is located on the traditional, unceded territories of the Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. This project offers an opportunity to honor and incorporate Indigenous perspectives, stories, and knowledge into the public art. Artists are encouraged to engage with local Indigenous communities and consider how their work can reflect Indigenous histories, cultures, and ongoing contributions to the land and community. This art commission aims to foster a deeper understanding and respect for Indigenous knowledge systems, contributing to the broader dialogue of reconciliation and cultural learning.

X’Pey School
X’Pey School, located in close proximity to the project site, has a significant history as a cultural and educational institution within the Grandview-Woodland community. Established to serve the local Indigenous population, the school has been a place of learning and cultural preservation. Its presence near the site underscores the importance of acknowledging and integrating Indigenous knowledge and history into the public art. Artists are encouraged to explore how their work can engage with the educational and cultural values represented by X’Pey School, creating a meaningful dialogue with the local community.

Public Art Context
Vancouver is recognized for its dynamic and diverse public art scene, which plays a vital role in the city’s identity and cultural expression. Public art in Vancouver serves as a powerful tool for community engagement, storytelling, and place-making. The artwork for this project will be part of this vibrant tradition, aiming to inspire and connect with a wide audience. Artists are invited to consider the broader public art context in Vancouver and how their work can contribute to the city’s evolving narrative. The selected piece should reflect the values of inclusivity, accessibility, and community engagement, resonating with both the local residents and visitors.

Budget
The total budget for this project is $161,130.43 CAD (plus GST). This budget encompasses all costs directly associated with the creation and installation of the artwork, including materials, fabrication, transportation, and installation. A set percentage of the overall budget will be allocated to artist fees, to be detailed by the selected artist in Phase 2.

Selection Process
This EOI marks the beginning of a two-phase commissioning process. Artist selection will be conducted by a Selection Panel comprising artists, community members, and arts professionals.

Phase 1 – Expression of Interest:
The Selection Panel will review all eligible EOIs and shortlist up to four (4) artists or artist teams for further consideration.

Phase 2 – Concept Proposal:
Shortlisted artists/teams will be invited to develop and present a Concept Proposal to the Selection Panel. Each shortlisted artist/team will receive a stipend of $3,500 CAD upon submission of their completed proposal.

Submission Deadline
All EOIs must be submitted by September 15, 2024, 5pm PT

EOI Submission Requirements
Please complete and submit the following information:

1. Contact Information:

• Full Name
• Pronouns
• Email
• Address
• Phone Number

2. Letter of Interest:

• Approximately 250 words describing your interest in this opportunity, the significance of public art, and the potential impact of this project.

3. Sample Artworks:

• Provide 5-10 images of your past work, including descriptions that highlight your artistic interests and experience.

4. Artist Bio:

• Share your background, including your nation or cultural affiliation, artistic experience, and any identity information you feel is important to include.

Important Note:
Please do not include any designs or sketches for this project at this stage of the process.

Submission Instructions
Submit your EOI by the specified deadline of September 15, 2024 at 5pm PT to info@expanded-field.com. For additional information or questions, please contact us via the email provided.

We look forward to receiving your expression of interest and learning more about your vision for this exciting project!