Strathbogie Shire Council is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from experienced artists to create a public artwork in Euroa.
The call for EOIs follows Council's adoption of a Public Art Policy in September 2022, the allocation of $20,000 through the Pitch My Project initiative and an engagement process to understand the community's preferences on the type and location of public art in our townships.
Mayor, Cr Laura Binks said the feedback from the community engagement was hugely positive.
"Overall we heard – make art happen," Cr Binks said.
"Specifically, there was significant support for bird sculptures but, we were also told to mix it up, surprise us - embrace our region, embrace Taungurung storytelling through art and pay tribute to our history and identity.
"Council is excited to see the outcomes of this work - in the form of a sculpture for Euroa."
A freestanding sculptural work is being sought for this commission. The commission also includes the design, structural engineering, fabrication and installation of all components of the permanent public artwork.
The sculpture is intended to have a significant lifespan (at least 20 years). It may consist of any material suited to permanent outdoor installation and suitability to all weather. It should also require minimal maintenance across its lifespan.
"It is intended that the sculpture will be placed prominently in Euroa and the proposed location is Seven's Creek Park," she said.
"Public art commissions will be assessed against the criteria outlined in Council's Public Art Policy and this information can be found on our website at www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au.
"Depending on the number of proposals received, the community may have the opportunity to vote on shortlisted proposals, if there are several eligible proposals, which equally address the six criteria."
The Expression of Interest period opens on Friday, March 3, 2023 and closes at 5pm on Friday, March 31, 2023.
Following this there will be a two-week review period and applicants will be notified of the outcome by April 14, 2023. Installation must be complete by June 30, 2023.
Artists are encouraged to submit an EOI via Council's website (https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/community/arts-and-culture/)
Alternatively download the application form and email to [email protected]