The 2025 database of public art RFQs and commissions
Find paid public art opportunities: municipal commissions, percent-for-art programs, RFQs (Request for Qualifications), and permanent installation projects. From $5,000 local murals to $500,000+ major commissions.
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What is Public Art?
Public art refers to artwork created for and installed in public spaces—parks, buildings, transit stations, streetscapes, and civic centers. Unlike gallery art, public art is typically commissioned through formal RFQ (Request for Qualifications) processes and funded by government entities, developers, or cultural organizations.
Types of Public Art
- • Sculpture and installations
- • Murals and wall paintings
- • Integrated architectural elements
- • Light and media art
- • Functional art (benches, bike racks, etc.)
- • Temporary and performance art
Funding Sources
- • Percent-for-art programs (1-2% of construction budgets)
- • Municipal arts budgets
- • Federal and state grants (NEA, etc.)
- • Private developer requirements
- • Community development funds
- • Arts councils and foundations
Browse by opportunity type
Different projects have different requirements and payment structures
RFQs
Request for Qualifications. Submit your portfolio and experience. If selected, you'll be invited to propose a specific design.
Browse RFQs →Commissions
Direct commissioning opportunities. Submit a proposal for a specific project or location with defined parameters.
Browse Commissions →Public Art Residencies
Time-based residencies that result in public art installations. Includes stipend, materials, and sometimes housing.
Browse Residencies →How Public Art RFQs Work
RFQ Posted
Municipality or organization posts requirements, budget, and timeline.
Artists Apply
Submit qualifications: portfolio, past public art experience, references.
Finalists Selected
2-5 artists invited to submit detailed proposals (usually paid stipend).
Winner Awarded
Selected artist receives commission to create and install artwork.
Timeline: Most RFQs take 6-18 months from posting to installation
What you need to apply to public art RFQs
Public art applications require more documentation than typical gallery submissions. Here's what to prepare:
10-20 images showing range, especially public art or large-scale work
Tailored to public art and community engagement
Education, exhibitions, past commissions, awards
Past clients, curators, or commissioners who can vouch for your work
Detailed write-ups of past public art projects (process, materials, community engagement)
Liability insurance, business license (sometimes required for finalists)
Breaking Into Public Art
New to public art? Here's how to build your experience and start winning commissions:
1. Start Small & Local
Apply to small municipal projects ($5,000-15,000) in your area. Build relationships with local arts councils.
2. Volunteer for Community Projects
Assist established public artists or lead community mural projects. Experience matters more than huge budgets.
3. Document Everything
Professional photos of installed work, process shots, community engagement, and testimonials from clients.
4. Network with Public Art Administrators
Attend Americans for the Arts conferences, join Public Art Network, connect with percent-for-art coordinators.
5. Understand Fabrication & Installation
Learn to work with fabricators, engineers, and installers. Public art requires technical knowledge beyond studio practice.
6. Apply Consistently
Most artists apply to 20-50 RFQs before winning their first commission. Persistence pays off.
Active Public Art RFQs & Commissions
Real public art opportunities currently accepting proposals
Orange County Animal Services Public Art Commission
Public art commission for county animal services facility.
2026 Sculpture on Westview Program
Annual outdoor sculpture program. City-sponsored.
Keller Public Library Mural
Mural commission for public library. City project.
City of Denver: Cook/Garland Park Public Art Commission
Park public art commission. Percent-for-art program.
SeaTac International Dining District – Food-Inspired Art Mural
Mural commission for dining district. Themed project.
Art 2C on Havana Street: 13th Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition
2026-2028 outdoor sculpture exhibition. 2-year display.
Browse by location
Related Guides
External Resources
- • Americans for the Arts - Public Art Network
- • Forecast Public Art - Guides and best practices
- • NEA Public Art - Federal funding opportunities
- • Your state arts council - Local percent-for-art programs
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