The Quest For Allyship - Call to Artists (RFQ)

National call for artists or artist teams to create a permanent public sculpture or installation celebrating allyship in Covington, Kentucky. The artwork will be installed at the southwest corner of 8th and Russell Streets. The project budget is $100,000. Up to five finalists will be invited to develop full proposals, with a $1,000 stipend for a completed proposal; one will be selected for funding. BLDG Brands curates the application and selection process for a coalition of community organizations.

Allyship: supporting, advocating for, and standing in solidarity with communities different from one's own. The theme is intentionally broad and open to interpretation.

Open nationally to artists and artist teams. Submit qualifications as a single PDF to jarrod@bldgbrands.com by 5:00 pm on October 30, 2026; the source does not specify a time zone. Include: a 2–3-page letter of interest highlighting interest, skills, and relevant experience; a current resume for each team member; up to five examples of similar art projects or creative installations, each summarizing purpose, materials, budget, timeline, partners, and management; three professional references with email addresses and phone numbers; and, optionally, up to five supporting materials such as reviews or news articles. Examples related to allyship are encouraged. Applicants must also provide a brief statement explaining how their proposed sculpture physically models interaction or progression and how its conceptual phase will capture the diverse lived experiences of Covington's communities. Up to five artists or teams will be invited to submit full proposals and interview with the jury; one will be selected for funding. Invited proposals require a 2–3-page narrative addressing theme, artistic approach, and environmental considerations; conceptual sketches, digital renderings, or models showing the artwork in context; a total project budget including artist fees, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and contingency; and a design, fabrication, and installation timeline. Artists receive a $1,000 stipend for a completed finalist proposal. The $100,000 project budget is not stated as an individual artist payment. Proposals are evaluated for artistic excellence, relevance to allyship, feasibility and safe fabrication/installation, durability and maintenance for long-term outdoor display, and connection to the site's cultural and social context. Thoughtful integration of the physical environment and local culture is strongly encouraged.