Public Art Sculpture - Gulf War Tribute

The purpose of this Solicitation is to seek proposals from professional artists and sculptors to design, permit, fabricate, and install a permanent public art sculpture honoring Gulf War veterans, specifically those who served during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

This project will result in a signature commemorative work at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 East Granada Boulevard, that reflects the courage, precision, unity, and national pride demonstrated during the Gulf War. The sculpture is intended to serve as both a place of reflection and a compelling visual landmark that educates and inspires visitors for generations to come. 

The selected artist(s) will be responsible for the full development and execution of the Gulf War Tribute Sculpture, including but not limited to the following:

Concept Development & Design

Project Management & Coordination

Materials & Fabrication

Site Integration & Installation

Documentation & Maintenance Guidance

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The purpose of this Solicitation is to seek proposals from professional artists and sculptors to design, permit, fabricate, and install a permanent public art sculpture honoring Gulf War veterans, specifically those who served during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Founded in 1946 as a living memorial to those who served in World War II, Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Garden continues its mission of inspiring our community through art and nature while honoring those who fought for freedom. Located in the heart of Ormond Beach, the museum and its gardens serve as a sanctuary for creativity, connection, and reflection.

This project will result in a signature commemorative work at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, 78 East Granada Boulevard, that reflects the courage, precision, unity, and national pride demonstrated during the Gulf War. The sculpture is intended to serve as both a place of reflection and a compelling visual landmark that educates and inspires visitors for generations to come. The vision for the sculpture emphasizes:

·         A strong figurative or human-centered design to create emotional connection;

·         Integration of patriotic elements, including the American flag;

·         A sense of movement, strength, and forward momentum;

·         Materials and construction suited for long-term durability in a coastal environment; and

·         An overall aesthetic that is modern, respectful, and enduring.

The selected artist(s) will be responsible for the full development and execution of the Gulf War Tribute Sculpture, including but not limited to the following:

A. Concept Development & Design

• Develop a compelling artistic concept aligned with the project narrative, incorporating themes of bravery, unity, precision, and national pride.
• Integrate key symbolic elements, including:
  • The significance of “100 hours” as a visual or structural feature;
  • Representation of unity across service members and the nation;
  • Use of figurative or human-centered design to evoke emotional connection; and
  • Incorporation of the American flag or patriotic symbolism.
• Present preliminary sketches, renderings, and/or maquettes for review and approval.

B. Project Management & Coordination

• Maintain communication with project stakeholders, including the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens and City staff.
• Provide project timeline updates and adhere to agreed milestones.
• Coordinate with any subcontractors, engineers, or fabricators as needed.

C. Materials & Fabrication

• Recommend and utilize materials appropriate for an outdoor, coastal environment, ensuring durability, corrosion resistance, and long-term structural integrity.
• Incorporate a design palette reflective of Gulf War conditions (e.g., desert tones or textures).
• Fabricate the sculpture to meet all engineering, safety, and installation standards.

D. Site Integration & Installation

• Collaborate with Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens and City staff to ensure appropriate siting within the gardens.
• Consider visitor flow, visibility, and interaction within the landscape.
• Oversee delivery and installation, including any required foundations or structural supports.

E. Documentation & Maintenance Guidance

• Provide final design documentation and as-built drawings.
• Submit recommended maintenance plan to ensure long-term preservation.

The final work should embody a sense of movement, strength, and modern reverence - creating an engaging and meaningful experience for visitors while honoring the legacy of Gulf War veterans.

Professional Qualifications: This solicitation is open to professional artists, sculptors, or artist teams with demonstrated experience in public art, large-scale sculpture, and/or commemorative works. Applicants should have a strong portfolio of completed installations, particularly those that reflect narrative storytelling, figurative elements, or historically significant themes. Experience working in outdoor coastal environments with durable, long-lasting materials is required.

The individual(s) interested in this contract should include a response to each of the following items in their written proposal:

1. Background of Artist or Team:

·         Letter introducing the artist/team

·         Qualifications of artist/team and any subcontractors

·         Demonstrated ability to manage timelines, budgets, and coordination

·         Professional references and past performance

B.   Portfolio of Experience:

·         Experience with public art, large-scale sculpture, or outdoor installations

·         Completed projects of similar scope, scale, and complexity

·         Experience with figurative sculpture or storytelling through form (preferred)

·         Proven ability to deliver projects on time and within budget

·         Quality, originality, and creativity of past work

C.   Investment Approach:

·         Demonstrated understanding of the Gulf War Tribute vision and narrative

·         Thoughtful integration of key elements (e.g., “100 hours,” unity, movement, symbolism)

·         Approach to engaging viewers and creating an impactful visitor experience

·         Responsiveness to site context within a public garden setting

·         Demonstrated ability to convey narrative, emotion, and historical significance

·         Alignment with the project themes of unity, precision, bravery, and national pride

·         Sensitivity and appropriateness in commemorative or memorial works

D.   Fees:

·         Breakdown of project cost sheet and timeline.