Call for Art: SoMa Announces RFP for Mural on 1200 block of Main Street

Request for Proposals (RFP): SoMa "Postcard" Style Mural Project

Issued by: SoMa 501 Little Rock, Inc.  

Project Title: SoMa Postcard Mural  

Location: SoMa District, Little Rock, AR  

Proposal Deadline: 10/7/24 12 p.m.

Overview:

SoMa 501, in partnership with the Division of Arkansas Heritage's Public Art Grant Program, seeks proposals from talented mural artists to create an interactive "Postcard" style mural. The artwork will embody SoMa’s independent, creative, inclusive, and historic character and engage both residents and visitors. This mural will serve as a visual landmark and photo destination, enhancing the cultural vibrancy of SoMa while celebrating its unique community.

Project Scope:

- Mural Theme: "Postcard" style artwork incorporating the word "SoMa" in a prominent, interactive design that invites engagement with visitors. The mural should capture SoMa's spirit—historic, creative, independent, and inclusive.

- Design Requirements:

  - Must include the word "SoMa" in a central, eye-catching manner.

  - Should incorporate interactive elements that encourage visitors to photograph themselves with the mural (e.g., elements they can "pose" within or alongside).

  - Reflect the SoMa district’s characteristics, including its history, diversity, culture, and the vibrancy of its businesses and community.

  - The mural must be site-specific and designed for the selected wall space within the SoMa district. Artists are encouraged to visit the proposed mural site to understand the space and community context.

  - Use durable, weather-resistant materials suitable for an outdoor installation.

- Location: 1210 Main St. Little Rock, AR 72202

- Size: Approximate dimensions of the mural space will be shared with shortlisted artists.

- Budget: A project budget of $10,000 will cover artist fees, supplies, travel expenses, and any other costs related to the mural's creation and installation.

- Timeline: The mural must be completed by agreed upon date.  

Eligibility:

- Open to mural artists with experience in public art projects.

- Artists must be able to work within the specified budget and timeline.

- Previous experience working on community-centric projects is preferred.

Proposal Requirements:

Interested artists should submit the following materials by 10/7/24:

1. Artist Statement: A brief introduction to the artist and explanation of interest in the SoMa "Postcard" mural project.

2. Design Concept: A detailed sketch or rendering of the proposed mural design, incorporating the word "SoMa" and interactive elements. Include a brief description of the concept and how it aligns with SoMa’s character.

3. Portfolio: Up to five examples of past work, preferably including large-scale public art or murals.

4. Timeline: A proposed timeline for the completion of the mural, including preparation, painting, and any required finishing processes.

5. Budget: An itemized budget, including artist fees, materials, and any other related expenses.

6. References: Contact information for at least two references familiar with the artist's previous public art projects.

Selection Criteria:

- Artistic Merit: Quality and creativity of the proposed mural design and its reflection of SoMa's personality.

- Interactivity: Inclusion of elements that encourage visitor interaction and engagement.

- Feasibility: Artist’s ability to complete the mural within the specified timeline and budget.

- Experience: Previous experience with public art projects and mural work.

- Community Impact: Consideration of how the mural will contribute to the SoMa district's cultural and visual landscape.

Submission Instructions:

- Proposals should be submitted electronically in PDF format to soma@somalittlerock.com.

- For questions or additional information, contact Elizabeth Michael at soma@somalittlerock.com.

- All submissions must be received by 10/7/24.

Important Dates:

- Proposal Deadline: 10/7/24

- Selection Announcement: 10/9/24

- Project Start Date: January 2025

- Completion Deadline: February 2025

Compensation:

The selected artist will receive an agreed upon compensation upon completion of the mural within the total project budget of $10,000. The $10,000 will include time, materials, supplies, travel and any other expenses needed to complete the mural. Payment will be made in installments, with details to be finalized during contract negotiations.

Rights and Usage:

Upon completion, the mural will become the property of SoMa 501 and may be used for promotional purposes in print, online media, and marketing materials. The artist will be credited in all relevant promotional materials.

Additional Information:

SoMa 501 reserves the right to modify, extend, or cancel this RFP at any time. Submission of a proposal does not guarantee selection.

We look forward to seeing your creative vision for SoMa!