For Immediate Release: 5/19/2020 3:16 pm
The City of Worcester Cultural Development Division, in partnership with the Worcester Cultural Coalition and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation, is accepting proposals from artists and designers for the Give Me A Sign project.
“The ‘Give Me A Sign’ project highlights the relationship between creative expression and mental health, which is especially relevant during COVID-19,” said Deputy Cultural Development Officer Che Anderson. “Artistic and creative outlets contribute positively to our community’s well-being and have proven valuable in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.”
To provide the community with moments of inspiration, education, and optimism, the Give Me A Sign project will provide visual encouragement throughout Worcester on 12” x 18” metal signs. The Request For Qualifications lists various inspirations for messaging including “call your grandparents,” “you can and you will,” and “tomalo con calma.”
Artists are invited to submit their qualifications until May 26 and will be notified of their selection by June 2. Once notified, finalists will have until June 9 to submit digital designs for consideration. Up to 19 designers will be selected by a committee, which will coordinate sign fabrication and place signs throughout Worcester. Honorariums in the amount of $1,000 will be awarded to the creators of the designs chosen.
"With the adoption of the Cultural Plan in 2019, the City aims to share Worcester's story through embedding art into our everyday lives," said Erin Williams, Cultural Officer for the City of Worcester. "Worcester is committed and excited to offer 19 paid creative opportunities to artists, especially in these uncertain times."
The Requests for Qualifications are open to all artists, artist teams, and design professionals with experience in public art design. Professionals residing in or with studio space in the city of Worcester are encouraged to apply. The deadline to submit qualifications is May 26, with installation planned for June 16. The signs are expected to be on display through at least June 2021.
Artists and designers may submit their credentials through this Google form.
