Ravenswood Community Council, in partnership with the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, 47th Ward Alderman Matt Martin, and SSA #31, is seeking muralists for a new public art project! Through this Request for Qualifications, we hope to reach experienced artists interested in creating a new gateway to Ravenswood.
Project Background & Site Description
Located in Chicago’s 47th Ward, the Ravenswood neighborhood’s historic Industrial Corridor is a unique hub of creativity and craftsmanship. It is home to artist studios, trade schools, manufacturers, brewers, and makers of all kinds. The viaduct at Lawrence and Ravenswood avenues serves as a gateway to this community and the entrance to the annual Ravenswood ArtWalk. It’s prominently located steps from the Ravenswood Metra Station and along the recently established Ravenswood Sculpture Garden.
Part of a broader placemaking initiative, Alderman Martin, RCC, GRCC, and SSA #31 committed to installing a mural at this vital intersection. This project presents a rare opportunity to create a signature work of public art for one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
The goal of this project is to enhance the connection between local artists/makers and their residential neighbors, and to reflect Ravenswood’s creative character. Artists selected to submit a full Proposal will need to include a Community Engagement Opportunity for local young people. Specifically, we’re interested in opportunities for high school-aged youth to learn about design and installation of public art and aid in the installation of this mural.
To be assured of consideration, submissions must be received no later than 5:00 PM CDT on Friday, May 31, 2024.
Project Timeline
- May 1 – Request for Qualifications Issued
- May 31 – RFQ Submission Deadline
- June 3 – June 5 – Submissions Reviewed / Finalists Selected
- June 5 – Artists Notified / Request for Proposals Issued
- June 30 – Proposals Due
- July 1 – Community Voting Period Begins
- July 10 – Community Voting Period Ends
- July 12 – Contract Awarded
- July 15 – September 8 – Work Period, including Community Engagement Opportunity
- September 14 – Ribbon Cutting at the Ravenswood ArtWalk
Project Budget
The total budget for the final mural project is $40,000. This includes all artist fees,
supplies, and costs related to the related community engagement.
3 finalists will be paid a $1,000 honorarium to develop full Proposals.
