Public Art Opportunities

Public Art Mosaic Trashcan Project Guidelines 

The City of Ventura, in collaboration with Pierpont Community Council, invites talented artists of Ventura County to participate in an exciting new project. Join us in enhancing the beauty and vibrancy of this seaside community by transforming Ventura's cement trashcans into public art.  

Project Description 

The Mosaic Trashcan Project is committed to showcasing the essence of this community with a series of coastal mosaic designs that will enhance four of the City of Ventura's cement trashcans. These four durable and unique designs will be united through a cohesive style, a color palette that incorporates the colors of Pierpont's Monument Sign, and a theme that reflects the beauty and vibrancy of this seaside community.  

Budget

A total budget of $2,500 for each trashcan selected (up to $10,000) is allocated for this project. The budget is all-inclusive and must cover all expenses associated with the concept, implementation, and post-implementation of the commissioned mosaic project, including design development, production, and execution. Artist(s) will also be responsible for purchasing and applying anti-graffiti products approved by the Parks & Recreation Department.  

Eligibility 

This project is open to: 

• Professional artists or artist organizations who live, work, or operate in the Ventura County Area. 
• Artists with 4+ years of experience working with mosaics. 

Note: Artist(s) will be responsible for procuring and maintaining in full force and effect all of the insurance requirements set forth by the City of Ventura, plus a current City of Ventura Business License. See Attachment “A” for insurance requirements. 

How to Apply

1. Complete the Mosaic Art Trashcan Project application available at the City of Ventura's website.
2. Design FOUR distinct artist renderings united through a cohesive style, a color palette that incorporates the colors of the Pierpont Monument Sign, and a theme that reflects the beauty and vibrancy of this seaside community. Using the Public Art Mosaic Trashcan Templates submit two design renderings with the City emblem and two without the City emblem for a minimum of four designs (maximum of six renderings). 
3. Create an Artist Statement (maximum 350 words). 
4. Compile three to five examples of previous public art projects, with at least three projects being mosaic works. All images must be submitted in PDF form, not to exceed 2mbs per image.  
5. Submit your completed application form, project renderings, resume with references, and examples of prior mosaic projects to Recreation Coordinator Elena Waller, at  [email protected].

Selection Criteria

Artist(s) will be selected based on the following criteria:  

• Submitted application packet. 
• Artistic merit and quality of proposed renderings’ including concept, design, durability, and clarity of theme.  
• Creativity and technical skills exhibited in examples of prior mosaic projects.  

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed by a panel of members from Ventura's Parks & Recreation Department, the City’s Arts & Culture Commission, and Pierpont Community Council.  

Important Dates:

• Application Submission Deadline: Friday, October 27, 2023, before 5:00 pm (PST) 
• Panel Review of Applications: Late October to early November 2023 
• Announcement of Selected Artist: Mid November 2023 
• Project Execution: December 2023 

Possible Phase II Public Art Opportunity

Phase II of this project may include a small mosaic mural located within the vicinity of the mosaic trashcans. Artist submissions for Phase I, the Mosaic Trashcan Project, may be used to select an artist to complete Phase II. 

Attachments

• Attachment A - Insurance Requirements  (PDF)

• Mosaic Trash Can Project Templates (PDF)

Applications are now CLOSED.