Fredericton Expands Temporary Public Art Program

Category: arts 154

Fredericton’s 2023 Temporary Public Art Program expands to include Phoenix Square in front of City Hall as well as alternate city-owned locations.

A temporary public art installation called Fish Wish (2021) on display in Phoenix Square at City Hall. The installation, by Fredericton area artist Jean Hudson, involved 240 recycled aluminum cans, some collected from the banks of the Wolastoq/ Saint John River.

The City of Fredericton invites proposals from professional artists to install temporary public artworks at Phoenix Square in front of City Hall as well as at alternate city-owned locations.

The temporary public art program is meant to contribute to a welcoming and vibrant space for the community and visitors to enjoy throughout the summer and fall. Although the public art is only intended to last for a short time, designs should be well constructed, vandal-resistant, and able to withstand summer and fall weather. 

Each location will have variable conditions that the artist must consider.  Proposals will be reviewed through a lens that includes public safety, sturdiness, public engagement, and how well it fits with the environment, while not posing an impediment to public use of the space.                                                      

Phoenix Square in the heart of downtown Fredericton is enjoyed by tourists, locals, and office workers, many who use the nearby benches or bistro tables. Applicants should note that in addition to seating, there is a prominent water fountain, large umbrellas, garden beds, large flowerpots, and other immovable objects that will need to be considered in the design process. Applicants are advised to examine the detailed site drawing here.  

Artists are to submit a resume and biography indicating their education level, artistic practice, and body of work; indicate the location(s) for proposed temporary artwork(s); a proposed design concept including text and drawings or diagrams; an itemized budget to a maximum of $5,000 for all costs related to production, transport, installation, removal, and artist fees; and, a timeline and process for creation and installation. Phoenix Square art is to be installed by the first week of July until mid-October. Other locations to be determined.

A juried selection will take place the week following the submission deadline. Artists submitting proposals for Phoenix Square can expect to be notified by mid-May.

Proposals for other city-owned locations will be considered at this time but may require further investigation based on the project and location proposed. The City reserves the right not to accept any proposals.  Artists are encouraged to send questions to the cultural development officer by email: culture@fredericton.ca.

Eligibility: Open to professional artists in the greater Fredericton region.

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