Request for Proposals: Waterfront Arts Programming
The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC) is seeking proposals artists and arts organizations to bring new and exciting programming to the Waterfront through June 2020. DRWC is using the term “programming” to mean a piece, project, program, or performance from any artistic discipline (think light installation, sculpture, concert, and more).
These programs can be located at one or more of the public spaces owned and operated by DRWC including, but not limited to, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest/Winterfest, Penn’s Landing, Cherry Street Pier, Race Street Pier, Washington Avenue Pier, Pier 68, and the Penn’s Landing Marina. The proposed program can be a site specific piece or a repurposing or customized version of an already created piece.
DRWC is looking to engage with 3-5 different artists or arts organizations on these programs. Selection will be made by a team consisting of independent arts professionals and DRWC staff.
WATERFRONT ARTS BACKGROUND
Since its establishment nearly a decade ago, DRWC and its partners have had success bringing public art to the Waterfront. As development momentum continues to build and revitalization efforts move forward, DRWC sees new and greater opportunities for art and culture on the horizon. The organization has outlined a clearly defined vision for locating art outside of traditional venues and expanding cultural experiences along the waterfront in its new Waterfront Arts Program. A more in-depth overview of the Waterfront Arts Program will be accessible on our website shortly.
This call for programming falls underneath the Waterfront Arts Program and is meant to introduce this new program to local and regional artists, curators, museums, and other arts organizations. These programs are also meant to show Philadelphia and its visitors the commitment of DRWC to bringing public art to the waterfront and supporting the creative economy.
BUDGET
$2000 inclusive of all costs associated with the project, including but not limited to: artist commission, professional consultations, materials, fabrication, transportation, travel, insurance, installation, and documentation when needed. DRWC will work with chosen programs to provide on-site operations, labor, and marketing.
- Funding/support beyond the above is not guaranteed, but we are happy to provide letters of support and will work to connect selected artists with local resources that may provide additional funding/connections.
PROPOSAL DETAILS
The proposal should include:
- A brief bio or description (250 words or less) of the organization/individual
- Description of the proposed program (300 words or less)
- Potential production needs
- Marketing reach of the individual or organization (including number of subscribers to e-newsletter lists, social media followers, etc.)
- Eight (8) hi-res images or links to videos
SELECTION CRITERIA
DRWC will use a jury consisting of staff and local artists and arts organization representatives. They will be choosing programs that:
- Represent multiple different types of artistic disciplines
- Are able to fit within the restraints of being in public spaces (high traffic, environmental conditions, security)
- Represent Philadelphia and the region’s artistic communities
- Embrace the unique conditions and evolution of the Delaware River Waterfront
- Bring audiences to the waterfront specifically to interact with the project
- Help to establish the Waterfront as an arts and culture destination
- The jury will be looking to place programs along the waterfront at the many different public spaces managed and maintained by DRWC. They will also be looking for programs that bring people to the waterfront throughout the year (ex: Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest in the winter)
ARTISTIC CONSIDERATIONS
- DRWC is not responsible for damage or loss of property
- Most of the public spaces are not climate controlled and programs should be proposed for the optimal time of year.
- Chosen artists and arts organizations will be responsible for installing and deinstalling their programs in conjunction with DRWC staff.
- Program organizers will be responsible for providing additional staffing at the events when needed (ex: manning a table)
- The artist should take into consideration that each public space sees a variety of visitors and the work should be take into consideration the diversity of attendees.
- The artist should keep in mind that the public will interact with the program whether or not that is the intention
- While the waterfront has security 24-7, this piece will not be under close surveillance during its entire time at the waterfront
- Photos and descriptions of the different public spaces can be found on DRWC’s website
TIMELINE & PROJECT SCHEDULE
Application deadline: August 23rd, 2019
Selection of programs: Mid to late September, 2019
Installation/Performance: To be completed by June 30th, 2020
SUBMISSIONS
Please send proposals to Emma Fried-Cassorla at efried-cassorla@drwc.org no later than August 23rd at 5pm. For larger files, please use a file sharing program like Dropbox or WeTransfer. Questions can be directed to efried-cassorla@drwc.org.
