Application deadline: May 6

Are you an artist located in Durham Region (or with a strong connection to Durham Region) interested in gaining public art experience?

Durham Region is seeking six (6) artists to apply to paint a wooden picnic table during Doors Open on June 15, 2024 at Durham Region Headquarters in Whitby. This is a paid opportunity to expand your public art experience!

Image credit: Tourism Richmond

Artist: Laura Kwok

About the opportunity

Location: Durham Region Headquarters, 605 Rossland Road East, Whitby

Number of Artists Selected: 6

Artist Qualifications: Artists must have a connection to the local Durham community (this includes Indigenous peoples, current and former residents, and artists with a strong connection to the local community).

Details of the opportunity: The selected artists will be provided with a six-foot cedar picnic table to paint live during Doors Open on June 15th celebrating Durham Region’s 50th anniversary. The tables are a similar design to the sample photos included in this call, however, the tabletop consists of five smaller boards. The artist will paint both the table top as well as the bench seats. Artists will be required to seal the final artwork with weather appropriate varnish.

Budget/Artists Fee: There is no registration fee and everyone who feels like an artist is welcome to apply. The awarded artists will be paid $750.00 plus HST. This is the total amount available for all related expenses of this public art project including, but not limited to: artist fees, all applicable taxes, materials including exterior paint and varnish, equipment, travel to the site, and an artist statement for the completed work.

Selection criteria: When evaluating artwork proposals, the Selection Committee will consider how the proposal considers placekeeping, artistic excellence of previous work, ability to achieve a high-quality final product, professional qualifications and relevant experience.

Selection process: Artists are informed of the specifics of the project through the Call to Artists. Artists are invited to submit an artist statement, their biography/cv and examples of past work. Only selected artists will receive an artist fee.

Durham Region reserves the right to select and retain artists deemed most appropriate for the project at its sole discretion.

Proposal Requirements

1. Artist statement: Describe your interest in this project and your idea for your design (300 words maximum).
2. CV and/or portfolio of relevant work. 10-pages maximum.
3. A sketch or rendering of your proposed design (optional).

Key dates

• Call for artists issued: April 15
• Application deadline: May 6
• Selected artists notified: May 13
• Painting date: June 15 (10 am expected start)

*Schedule is subject to change

Accessibility Notice

Artists who require accommodations or who need support applying for this opportunity are encouraged to contact us at least one week before the application deadline to allow Durham Region to ensure an accessible process.

Contact

If you have questions about this opportunity, please contact Caitlin Rochon, Manager, Corporate Initiatives at art@durham.ca or by calling 311.

Apply now

Photo credit: Tourism Richmond
Artist: Dawn Lo

What is public art?

Public art is work in any medium that has been produced by an artist, or in collaboration with artists, and installed in a public space. It is created to reflect and engage the community and has undergone a formal selection process. Public Art may have functional and aesthetic qualities; it may be integrated into its site, or it may be a discrete piece; it can be participatory, and permanent or temporary. At its core, public art is free and accessible, encouraging community members of different abilities, backgrounds, and identities to engage.

The following are not considered public art:

• Plaques, memorials, and interpretative signs;
• Art objects which are mass-produced or of standard design;
• Easily moveable artworks such as paintings, drawings, models and books; and
• Artwork inside Regional facilities unless they are publicly accessible and available at all times.

What is placemaking?

Placemaking focuses on creating vibrant, engaging, and inclusive public spaces. It involves transforming ordinary or underused areas into lively and people-centred environments that promote social interaction, cultural expression and community identity. Placemaking involves local residents, businesses, artists and other collaborators in the design and activation of public spaces to reflect their needs and aspirations. This process consists of a series of projects and/or activities that rejuvenate structures and streetscapes, engage and empower people, and improve the quality of a place over time. It can improve local business viability and public safety, and bring diverse people together to celebrate, inspire, and be inspired.

What is placekeeping?

Placekeeping is a concept closely related to placemaking but with a different focus. Placekeeping is an approach to design based on land stewardship that is centred around recognizing the rights of the landscape as a living being first and considering our responsibilities now and into the future. It involves thinking about the context and history of the place including Indigenous histories and futures and preserving and maintaining the unique qualities and character of a place over time. It involves ongoing efforts to protect, sustain, and nurture the identity, heritage, and cultural significance of a particular area. Placekeeping can include activities such as advocating for the preservation of historic landmarks, promoting local traditions and customs, ensuring equitable access to public spaces, and safeguarding the natural environment. It recognizes the importance of continuity and long-term stewardship in sustaining thriving and meaningful places.

What is an artist's fee?

An artist's fee is the amount of money that the artist will be paid for their professional services. All Durham Region Calls for Artists will describe the budget or artist fee available for the project.

How do I apply to participate in a public art selection committee?

Submit your application using our online form.

Do you have a question not answered here? Ask us!