Lincoln Music Box RFQ

The Downtown Lincoln Association (DLA) seeks to commission art installations adjoining the Music Box (MBX), located at 14th and N Street. Nestled in Lincoln’s Music District, MBX is a space for music rehearsal, recording, performance, and education. The proposed installations would occupy MBX’s adjacent covered alley. Artists or teams of artists with connections to Lincoln are encouraged to apply.

The Downtown Lincoln Association (DLA) seeks to commission art installations adjoining Music Box (MBX), located at 14th and N Street. Nestled in Lincoln’s Music District, MBX is a space for music rehearsal, recording, performance, and education. The proposed installations would occupy MBX’s adjacent covered alley. Installations will be divided into two phases. Artists are encouraged to indicate interest in either/both phases in their application.

Phase 1 prioritizes the alley area immediately adjacent to MBX. Visible from the venue’s interior and its frontage on 14th street, this portion of the alley serves as a secondary entrance, equipment loading dock, and gathering space. The selected artist or team will collaborate with representatives from DLA and MBX to create a dynamic installation resonating with MBX’s raw-yet-refined design, which juxtaposes raw plywood and exposed concrete with sleek colors and faceted forms.

Project space may include the entire patio area or be broken into several sections (north wall, south wall; murals, lighting) depending on the artist or team’s interests. Awards of up to $20,000 may be distributed if the entire project space is desired by an artist or team of artists. Please indicate if you are interested in all or a portion of the project space. 

Phase 2 concentrates on the remainder of the large alley. This zone, which curves southward toward N street, serves as the primary drive to the venue’s loading dock. Artists or teams of artists are encouraged to apply. Exact award amount is to be determined but the award will be commensurate with Phase 1.

A committee of stakeholders, community members, and design professionals will review submissions to the RFQ. Submissions should include a letter of interest, resumé, and artwork images, submitted via www.CallForEntry.org (CaFÉ) by April 11th, 11:59PM CST.

The committee will notify finalists by April 18th. Finalists will receive a $500 honorarium to create a design proposal and presentation to the committee by mid-May. The committee will select the artist or team based on relevant experience and the proposed installation’s durability and compatibility with MBX’s design.

About the Downtown Lincoln Association (DLA):

Founded in 1967, the Downtown Lincoln Association was originally established as a merchants’ association by downtown retailers who recognized the need for an organization to serve downtown’s unique needs. DLA has since evolved to a multi-faceted organization supporting a wide range of programs and activities including maintenance, economic development and advocacy. DLA is also the umbrella for the Downtown Neighborhood Association. The association works closely with the Lincoln Haymarket Development Corporation to support Haymarket revitalization and attractions.

About Music Box (MBX):

MBX is a multi-functional audio and visual creative event space, located at 1330 N St, Suite C on the corner of 14th & N Streets in Downtown Lincoln, NE. MBX elevates Lincoln’s art and music scene by providing tangible incentives for creators to create, perform, and innovate. From incubating new artists to retaining local talent, MBX builds a vibrant lasting community around music.

Please submit the following items via www.CallForEntry.org (CaFÉ). There is no application fee to apply or to use the CaFÉ™ online application system.

1. 5-10 examples of past work
2. Résumé
3. Statement of interest (no longer than 2,000 characters)

Artists or teams of artists residing in Lincoln, NE, or artists with connections to Lincoln, NE. Please reach out with any questions about eligibility.