CultureDale Public Art- Artist Commission

Project name: Conversation Sculpture Bench Trail

Key Details:

We are seeking experienced public realm artists with a visual arts sculptural practice to create 5bench sculptures within Manor Heath Park to provide focal points that encourage conversation, reflection, and social cohesion. Applications can be made by individual artists or a collective of artists working in collaboration. Artists will be based in Calderdale or have experience of working in Calderdale.

Budget:

£10,000 per bench (5 available).

All design, materials, production, transport, and specialist installation (above what the council can offer) costs must be included in the £10,000.

Application deadline: 23rd February 2025.

Timeframe:

The successful applicants will be expected to begin work upon notification from Early March 2025 with a view to begin installation in April 2025 as part of the closing celebrations for the Year of Culture.

Aims:

The bench sculpture commission will deliver 5 contemporary sculptural benches to be located in Manor Heath Park, Calderdale.

The benches will provide a chance for reflection, conversation, and celebration of the local area. They will be inspired by local history, geography or draw on themes from the past 50 years of the Calderdale Borough.

Objectives:

The bench sculpture will be large enough for 3-4 or more adults to sit comfortably and can also be enjoyed by wheelchair users. The bench sculpture needs to reflect the space that it is located in and stimulate conversation between people using it. This can be done in the art piece itself or through information, history, or heritage in a digital medium. The seat needs to be made of durable materials which are easily maintained. The seat needs to fit comfortably within the dimensions below. The design and the area that it is situated needs to be fully accessible.

The bench must be designed to be bolted down into concrete.

Designs incorporating recycled materials will be additionally weighted within the selection process.

For the complete criteria, timelines, and how to apply, please read the full guidance document linked below. The deadline for applications is 23 February 2025.