Extracted text (via pymupdf)
6898 characters
CALL TO ARTISTS Town of Fountain Hills Electric Box Mural Project Deadline to Apply: October 20, 2025, by 11:59 PM (Arizona Time) Project Completion: November–December 2025 (All murals completed by December 31) Commission Awards: $3,000–$4,000 per mural (depending on box size) Project Overview The Town of Fountain Hills, in partnership with Art State Arizona, is seeking Arizona-based artists and artist teams to create original, site-specific murals on eight (8) utility and electric boxes throughout Fountain Hills. These murals will turn everyday infrastructure into vibrant community landmarks that celebrate the region’s stunning natural landscape, rich cultural history, and creative spirit. The program continues the Town’s investment in public art as a means of enhancing civic spaces, fostering pride, and supporting Arizona artists. Artistic Themes Artists are encouraged to create designs that reflect the spirit, beauty, and identity of Fountain Hills, connecting to one or more of the following thematic directions: • Desert and Botanical Life: Celebrate the native flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert — saguaros, agaves, hummingbirds, and desert blooms. • Dark Sky Inspiration: Fountain Hills is one of the world’s few International Dark Sky Communities. Designs may capture the wonder of night skies, constellations, and celestial movement. • Outdoor Recreation and Exploration: Depict the trails, mountains, and lakes that define Fountain Hills’ outdoor lifestyle. • Community Identity: Illustrate the connection, inclusion, and vibrancy that make Fountain Hills a uniquely creative desert community. All artwork must be family-friendly, original, and suitable for public display. Commission Details • Total Commissions: 8 • Commission Range: $3,000–$4,000 (depending on box size and complexity) • Box Sizes: Vary by location (final measurements provided to selected artists) • Timeline: o Application Deadline: October 20, 2025, at 11:59 PM o Selection Notification: Early November 2025 o Mural Completion: No later than December 31, 2025 Each selected artist will enter into a Public Art Agreement with the Town of Fountain Hills and Art State Arizona outlining scope, payment schedule, and insurance requirements. Artist Responsibilities & Technical Requirements Preparation and Installation • The Town of Fountain Hills will power wash each electric box prior to installation. • Prior to painting, the artist must prime all surfaces with one of the following: o KILZ2 Exterior White Latex Primer, or o Rust-Oleum White Enamel Metal Primer, or o Another high-quality exterior primer suitable for metal surfaces (approved in advance). • After completion, the artist will seal the entire mural using a UV-protective, weather- resistant sealant to ensure long-term durability. Design & Collaboration • Artists will collaborate with the Town of Fountain Hills and Art State Arizona to finalize their designs. • Artists should anticipate at least two rounds of revisions or edits before approval. • A final, to-scale design and site rendering must be submitted and approved prior to installation. • The final artwork must reflect the approved concept, with only minor adjustments permitted onsite. Materials Artists are responsible for providing all paints, supplies, equipment, and materials required for the project, including primers, paints, brushes, ladders, and sealants. All materials used must be high-quality, exterior-grade, fade-resistant, and UV-stable for long-term durability in Arizona’s desert climate. Eligibility This call is open to professional artists and artist teams living in Arizona. Experience in mural painting, public art, or large-scale outdoor works is preferred. Emerging artists are welcome to apply with a strong portfolio that demonstrates capability and artistic vision. Selection Process & Criteria A panel of representatives from the Town of Fountain Hills, Art State Arizona, and local arts professionals will review submissions based on: 1. Artistic excellence and originality 2. Connection to Fountain Hills’ identity and themes 3. Feasibility and durability of materials 4. Past experience and demonstrated ability to complete similar projects 5. Quality of portfolio and visual presentation of concept Selected artists will be notified by early November 2025. Application Requirements All materials must be submitted electronically by October 20, 2025, at 11:59 PM (Arizona Time). Required Materials: 1. Artist Statement (1 page): Describe your artistic practice and how it relates to the proposed theme(s). 2. Concept Sketch(es): Visual renderings or mock-ups showing your design concept, color palette, and integration with the box shape. 3. Concept Description (250–500 words): Explain the inspiration behind your design and its relevance to Fountain Hills. 4. Resume or CV: Include previous mural, public art, or community-based projects. 5. Portfolio (3–5 images): Samples of previous work demonstrating artistic quality and technical ability. 6. Budget Overview: A simple breakdown of materials and expected costs (included within your commission total). About the Partners Art State Arizona Art State Arizona strengthens Arizona’s cultural and economic fabric by making the arts essential to everyday life. Through creativity, collaboration, and advocacy, Art State integrates arts into workplaces, healthcare, education, government, and public spaces— fostering equity, connection, and creative growth statewide. Town of Fountain Hills Surrounded by the McDowell Mountains and the Verde River, Fountain Hills is a community built on natural beauty and civic pride. Recognized as an International Dark Sky Community, the Town is committed to sustainability, public art, and enhancing the well- being of residents through culture, creativity, and thoughtful design. Additional Information • Selected artists will be featured in Town of Fountain Hills and Art State Arizona media campaigns, press releases, professional photography and social media spotlights. • Artists must comply with all Town safety regulations during installation. • Artists will coordinate installation dates and times with Town representatives. • All artwork becomes the property of the Town of Fountain Hills upon completion. How to Apply Submit all required materials by October 20, 2025, at 11:59 PM (Arizona Time) using the official online application: For questions or assistance, contact: Art State Arizona Public Art Program kate@artstateaz.org www.artstateaz.org Join Us in Illuminating the Desert Art has the power to transform ordinary places into extraordinary experiences. Through this project, Fountain Hills will continue to shine as a place where nature, art, and community thrive together.