Welcome to the Public Art Request for Proposals page! This page serves as the gateway for artists to explore current opportunities, review project requirements, and apply by submitting their art proposals.

Each RFP outlines project details and submission guidelines, offering a chance for artists to contribute their talents to our City's public spaces. We invite you to browse the active requests and bring your creative vision to life in San Luis Obispo.

RFP Application Steps 

1. Download Corresponding Request for Proposal (RFP)
2. Complete Exhibit A Application 
3.  Attach a current resume and 5 examples of previous work
4. Complete Exhibit B Reference list
5.  Create design proposal using the templates provided
6. Scan (if needed) and attach all files in an email to: agriesho@slocity.org

What happens after submitting proposals?

1. After artists submit their proposals, they will receive an email verifying that the City's Public Art Program has received all necessary parts.
2. Once the RFP has been closed an art jury will be compiled to review all submissions.
3. Chosen artists will be notified by email. 

Request for Proposals Process

RFP Released: A Request for Proposal is released outlining the requirements of the design request. An RFP can remain open for many weeks, with deadlines commonly extended.

RFP Closes: Once the RFP closes, a jury of 7 community members including local arts orgs, local artist(s), interested community member(s), and other city stakeholders is complied.

Art Jury Meets: In the weeks after the RFP closes, the submissions are sorted, and labeled with random ID numbers. An art jury gathers and selects the finalists to be recommended to the city staff/council.

City Staff/Council Review: At this stage city staff and/or city council will review the jury recommended art. For temporary art (< 5 yrs) city staff reviews the recommended finalists and in long-term projects, city council approval is needed.

Artists Notified: The finalist(s) are notified and awarded an honorarium for their design. Payment amounts vary from project to project and finalists must have (or acquire) a SLO business license. Contracts are signed during this time.

Installation of Art: State and city codes direct how public art can be installed. Sometimes the artist installs the art themselves and other times a contractor is hired to install the art. Once in place, a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony is held.