Call to Artists

We are thrilled to announce a public art project that invites innovative and impactful proposals from local and Canadian artists to enrich our community’s public spaces by harmonizing nature, health, and technology. We seek creative professionals, including artists and artist teams, to apply for this unique opportunity to create a visionary work of art that highlights the intersection of these themes, fostering well-being and sustainability while embracing technological advancements. The selected artwork will become iconic. Inspiring the public and leaving a lasting impression on both our environment and community.

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CITY CENTRE 4

9686 137 STREET, SURREY CENTRE BC, CANADA

Public Art Commission for City Centre 4. City Centre 4 is the latest and largest phase yet of Surrey City Centre’s Health & Technology District which currently totals over 1/2 million SF of AAA office and retail space. ​ Existing companies include a large number of professional, health, academic and technology based organizations and professionals that are focused on innovation and BC’s emerging technology economy. This rapidly growing, high-profile community is home to a network of researchers, entrepreneurs, multinational and start-up companies, and some of the most advanced digital health, wellness, technology, and clinical service organizations.

Located in the vibrant Health & Technology District and immediately adjacent to one of Canada’s busiest hospitals.

CORE PROJECT PRINCIPALS

• Community Engagement: The artwork should reflect the identity and values of our community, sparking conversation, fostering inclusivity, and encouraging interaction.

• Innovation and Creativity: We are seeking art that pushes creative boundaries and demonstrates originality in form, medium, and concept.

• Site-Specific Design: The artwork should be thoughtfully integrated into the public space, complementing its surroundings while enhancing the experience for visitors and residents.

• Sustainability: We encourage the use of sustainable and eco-friendly materials, mindful of environmental impacts.

• Durability and Maintenance: Given that the artwork will be installed outdoors, it must be designed to withstand local weather conditions and require minimal maintenance over a lifetime of 30 - 50 years.

1. PRIMARY LOCATION

Ideally 80% of budget

This primary location has a unique feature that will need to be considered by all proposing artists. The air vent highlighted in green can be avoided, hidden by, or incorporated into the proposed designs.

Focal point: The highlighted area will naturally draw attention and become the visual centerpiece.

Sculptural Design Focus: Intended to be a bold, large-scale sculpture that commands attention in the space.

  • Project Outline

    Project Budget - $579,000.00

    ( Ideally 80% or $463,200.00 of this budget will be allocated to the primary location while the remaining 20% or $115,800.00 will be allocated to the other 2 secondary locations)

    Proposed Project Completion : Early January 2026

    View Project Details 

  • Proposal Outline

    Open Call for experienced, professional Local Canadian artists. Artists may submit proposals individually or as artist teams.

    The artwork should reflect the identity and values of our community, sparking conversation, fostering inclusivity, and encouraging interaction.

    Submission Deadline : January 31st 2025

    Submit Your Proposal 
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SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Artists may apply for consideration as an individual or in collaboration with other artist as a team. Artists applying as a duo must submit one single application in unison.
All artists interested will submit an Expression of Interest that includes the following:
- Contact information: full name, pronouns, email and phone number
- Submission Type: Individual or Collaborative
- Artist Bio: a short synopsis of you and your art practice.
- Sample Artwork: 4-6 photographs with clear descriptions
- Identity Statement: a brief statement that includes inter-sectional identities such as racial, cultural, Nation affiliation, gender, disability, etc. Applicants are only required to share to the extent of their comfort levels.
- Concept Statement OR Statement of Interest:

SUBMISSION PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

SELECTION PART 1 : Preliminary concept proposals - via public call to artists and private outreach

Artists must submit the stipulated: At this time we may ask clarifying questions or request details to be sure artists are legitimate and to prepare for part 2 of the selection process.

Artist Statement: A brief description of your artistic practice and how it aligns with the project goals.

Proposal: Basic concept and rationale of the proposed design. Including potential materials location and breakdown of placement.

Timeline: A proposed timeline for the completion of the artwork, including key milestones.

Portfolio: Up to 10 images of past work relevant to the scale and scope of this project, along with brief descriptions of each piece.

Resume/CV: Detailing relevant experience, including public art projects (if applicable).

References: Contact information for at least two references familiar with your work.

SELECTION PART 2 : Selected shortlist of artists will elaborate on concept proposals.

Approximately 5-7 artists will be shortlisted to elaborate and fine tune their proposals. Shortlisted artists will receive a $1,500 fee used to explore their concepts, materials, budgets and answer any questions needed to be selected.

Elaborate on Proposal: Include concept drawings, renderings, or sketches that illustrate your vision for the artwork. Explain how it relates to the site and community.

Budget Breakdown: A detailed budget outlining material costs, artist fees, fabrication, and installation expenses.

SELECTION PART 3 : Selected artist or artists will sign contract to begin fabrication after a final review.

SEND SUBMISSIONS TO / CONTACT FOR QUESTIONS

By Email: project@artworksbc.com | Subject Line: Artist Application for City Centre 4
SUBMISSION DEADLINE | January 31st 2025
Submit Your Proposal