Are you interested in creating a public art project in Santa Cruz? Are you wondering what a typical process is like for selecting and placing public art? Well, it can be more complicated that it might seem at first, but it's not impossible! Here is a general list of steps and considerations.

Typical Public Art Project Process/Checklist

• Determine project budget
• Determine who is paying the artists and how much
• If you want to pitch the idea to the City (this isn't in response to a call from the City) then complete an Unsolicited Proposals application and budget. Email the Arts Manager for the correct forms at PublicArt@CityofSantaCruz.com .
• Get initial OK from Arts Commission and/or relevant City Departments to proceed
• Draft and post an RFQ or RFP to artists
• Assemble a selection panel and review responses
• Interview artists if needed
• Select final artist(s)
• Hold a community/neighborhood meeting and/or do targeted outreach about project
• Post notices on site if needed
• Get Arts Commission final approval of designs at public meeting
• Obtain proper City contracts are in place and artists have liability insurance on file
• Manage installation/coordinate will necessary City departments
  
  *Featured image is of Cupid's Span in San Fracisco by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen,