The City of Merriam and Merriam Public Art Committee invite public artists to submit qualifications for the design, fabrication, and installation of an interactive artistic sculpture which will be located on the Turkey Creek Streamway Trail, serving as a striking focal point within the landscape. The sculpture should be unique and specific to the site. The sculpture should have a theme drawing from nature, providing an opportunity to inform and inspire visitors. The sculpture design must be inclusive, featuring accessible elements that ensure safety and accommodate a wide range of abilities and ages. It should also be engineered to include climbable features that allow for safe interaction by people of all abilities. Materials must be durable and appropriate for exterior applications within the climate of eastern Kansas.
The project should foster place-based pride, engage residents and visitors, draw attention to and beautify public space, and position Merriam as a vibrant community supportive of arts and culture.
Desired placemaking outcome(s): Engagement – Enhance our community's vibrancy and quality of life by inviting people to engage with art as learners, collaborators, or explorers. City Identity – Welcome visitors to the Streamway Trail. Inclusivity – Feature accessible elements that ensure safety and accommodate a wide range of abilities and ages. Creative Class – Highly visible project that represents values and makes Merriam known for the arts.
The Streamway Trail site is located near 6901 Knox St., Merriam, KS 66203. The sculpture will be located in the open field next to the butterfly garden, across from the Merriam Public Works facility.
The budget for this project is $250,000. The final artist/team selected is responsible for using this contract amount for all costs associated with the project. Up to three semi-finalists will be invited to develop a site-specific proposal for the project and asked to present at an interview. A stipend of $2,000, inclusive of any travel expenses, will be provided for this work.