Applications open today for six $50,000 prizes to design and deliver amazing activations across Port Phillip.
The $300,000 prize pool is part of Port Phillip Council's efforts to encourage excitement and economic recovery after lockdown.
Mayor Louise Crawford is urging designers, artists, architects, sculptors and other creatives to think outside the box when submitting concepts for the Reimagine - Activation Design Competition.
"We are funding the competition from our Reactivation of Public Space Budget as this is a perfect way to reimagine our public spaces while encouraging extra foot traffic for our traders who have done it tough during lockdown," Cr Crawford said.
"This is about creating vibrancy and visitation through creative use of public space."
The competition criteria provide plenty of scope for imaginative entries. There is a preference fo interactive or tactile projects, made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials.
Non-static statues, light projections or inflatable installations - the possibilities are endless.
The winning entries will be in place between six weeks to nine months and must add colour and interest to the streetscapes or public places which will be their temporary home.
While Council is open to considering all public spaces as suggested activation sites, preference will be given to: Bay Street, Port Melbourne; Clarendon Street, South Melbourne; Carlisle Street, Balaclava; Ormond Road, Elwood; Glen Eira Road, Ripponlea; Blessington Street, St Kilda; Armstrong Street, Middle Park; Fitzroy Street, St Kilda and Victoria Avenue or Bridport Street, Albert Park.
The winners must use their prize money to cover all costs, including fabrication, installation and maintenance, and safety issues can't be caused by the activations.
After initial submissions close on 18 October, up to 12 applicants will be chosen to progress to Stage 2, where they must provide detailed designs. After a further assessment, six winners will be announced in November.
