CALL FOR ARTISTS – Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Public Art

Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) is seeking one or more artists to create a permanent, exterior, site-specific art installation as part of the renovation of 116 Norfolk Street near Central Square in the Port neighborhood of Cambridge. Artists and artist teams who wish to be considered for the project are invited to submit a portfolio of select relevant work and a brief initial proposal for this site by 5 pm on June 24, 2022.

BACKGROUND

The art installation will be incorporated into the renovation and addition at 116 Norfolk Street. This renovation is part of the CHA’s modernization of 116 Norfolk Street, which currently provides affordable housing to 38 seniors and people with disabilities. Planned construction at this site includes the construction of an addition that will bring the number of apartments on site to 62. All current residents have the right to return after construction, and new units will be filled by people experiencing homelessness.

CHA is responsible for planning, financing, constructing, and maintaining the renovation work, including the art installation. The installation will be constructed as part of the last phase of construction in 2024. The final proposal must be approved by staff at the CHA. Artists will work directly with CHA and the architects (HMFH Architecture) to implement the work.

BUDGET

Please propose a budget for this artwork. This budget is to include all fees related to the artwork including but not limited to design (including a community art event if part of the proposal), fabrication, delivery, insurance, artist fees, travel, and presentations. The final selected artist or artist team must develop a detailed budget for CHA approval.  The fabrication of the art may be subject to state procurement laws. CHA’s budget for art at 116 Norfolk is $200,000. If proposals fall under this budget, multiple proposals may be adopted.

ELIGIBILITY

This opportunity is open to all artists regardless of their geographic location. Given the artwork’s focus on the Port neighborhood, preference may be given to artists with knowledge of the area. Artists must be able to attend the artist site visit in Cambridge, MA.

You may submit materials either electronically or by mail to the following address:

Allyah Pimentel Landestoy

alandestoy@cambridge-housing.org

Cambridge Housing Authority

362 Green Street, Third Floor

Cambridge, MA, 02139

If mailing the application, please also email to let us know to expect it. All submissions (electronic or hard copy) must be received by the deadline indicated above. late submissions cannot be accepted.

Please submit the following information to view details: