University Parkway Mural Project

The Public Art Committee of Johnson City, TN is seeking qualifications from artists or art teams for the commission of a mural to be located on University Parkway in Johnson City.

View the complete Request for Qualifications.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: March 31, 2022 by 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

ELIGIBILITY: This opportunity is open to all professional artists over the age of 18. Applicants must reside within the United States.

BUDGET: Up to three finalists will be selected to develop design concepts for this project. The total project budget for the selected commission is $29,500. Each finalist will be paid a $500 honorarium for his/her design. The selected artist(s) will be paid $28,000 for the commissioned work. The three finalists will be required to present their proposals to the Selection Committee either in person or via Zoom. Those presenting in person will be reimbursed for travel expenses (airfare, car rental, etc.). The selected artist(s) will be responsible for own travel costs, materials, housing, and personal liability insurance when installing the mural.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This mural project emerged from a desire to incorporate murals into areas beyond Johnson City’s downtown district. Situated just west of downtown and north of East Tennessee State University and the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, the chosen mural site at Fire Station 4 lies on the outskirts of Kiwanis Park. The residential areas that surround the site are undergoing a gradual revitalization process; University Parkway was extended through the nearby neighborhoods in recent years, bringing new sidewalks and other infrastructure to this part of town. Across the street at Topper Academy, high school students are striving to overcome difficult circumstances and earn their diplomas. At the mural site itself, the fire station, public employees selflessly serve the community by keeping citizens safe and guiding families through the process of recovery after destructive fires. Given all of these attributes of the location, the mural design might serve as a point of inspiration for the community. Potential themes for this project are resilience, growth, and transformation. However, the project theme is undefined, and artists may suggest alternative themes.

INSTALLATION DATE: Installation of the mural will be scheduled in consultation with the selected artist. The preferred installation period is June 2022. 

SUBMISSION DETAILS: View the Request for Qualifications for more info.