Ferndale Seeks Artists’ Proposals for “Ferndale in Bloom” Public Art
(Downtown Ferndale, July 21, 2024)
Ferndale, MI – Downtown Ferndale is excited to announce the return of the Public Art Program and the annual call for artists’ proposals!
The deadline to apply for the public art program in Downtown Ferndale is Monday, July 22, 2024 at midnight. “Ferndale continuously encourages individuals and businesses to bloom into a vibrant, beautiful and distinct community. Downtown Ferndale is a community that is welcoming of all, it is ever growing and changing, similar plants and flowers bloom and flourish. Blooming in Downtown Ferndale can mean different things to different people.” Said Sommer Realy, the program manager and Engagement Manger for the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), Downtown Ferndale.
“We encourage artists to let their creativity run wild and submit a proposal based upon the 2024 Theme “Ferndale in Bloom”.
2024 Theme Selection Criteria
ARTIST INSPIRATION: Artist should explain how the proposed design was inspired by the Downtown Ferndale inclusivity theme: “Ferndale in Bloom”.
COMMUNICATION OF THEME TO PUBLIC: How well does the design communicate the artist’s inspiration and the theme “Ferndale in Bloom” to the viewer. Does the design inspire celebration and send a message that everyone is welcome in Downtown Ferndale?
INTERACTIVE COMPONENT: Interactive components are encouraged whenever feasible. Property owners along with business owners can submit their interest in obtaining a public art installation on the exterior of their location that meets the criteria of the program, anytime of the year. The selection process is overseen by an advisory committee comprising representatives from the Downtown Development Authority, Ferndale Arts and Beautification Commission, a “You Belong Here!” muralist and staff from the City of Ferndale.
The committee evaluates each artist’s proposal based on artistic quality, feasibility, interactivity, and diversity of styles and artists.
Properties submitted consideration are evaluated to prioritize highly visible public sites, underutilized pedestrian spaces, or those with safety and security issues. The goal is to continue to add to the existing public art collection located in Downtown Ferndale that celebrates the unique voices of the artists while reflecting the vibrant tapestry of Ferndale’s community.
The success of the Downtown Ferndale Public Art Program can be measured by the overwhelming amount of interest, participation, artist submissions, and support from the community.
For more information about the annual Downtown Ferndale Public Art Program, please visit our website at www.downtownferndale.com/publicart.
