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By Jesse Robinson
Lake Superior College has announced a Request for Qualifications for Art in the newly expanded T-Building that will house the college’s integrated manufacturing programs.
The site for the artwork will be the main vestibule of the T-Building, which is the main entryway for the building from the West parking lot. Artwork in this space should invite viewers to engage with the themes.
This RFQ is open to all artists; however, priority will be given to artists residing in the Arrowhead region of Minnesota and the South Shore of Lake Superior in Wisconsin. The selected artist or team should bring a creative vision to the installation that relates in some way to the environment, the Native land on which the building is located, and be themed appropriately for a public college building dedicated to manufacturing. This space can be enhanced with art hanging on the wall or from the ceiling. Art that is more sculptural or art that invites gathering, such as benches or seating, may be placed on the floor.
The building expansion on the main campus welcomes back three programs that were located at a satellite campus in downtown Duluth for the past 10 years. These programs are Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Machine Tool Technology, and Welding, all three programs lead to highly skilled, high-demand careers in two years or less.
The artist should consider integrating materials and utilize design and fabrication methods relevant to Welding, Machine Tool and CAD programs into the design of the artwork (e.g. Metals such as steel, aluminum, or 3D printed materials, etc).
“At Lake Superior College, we believe public art is essential in shaping our campus environment,” said Dr. Patricia Rogers, President of Lake Superior College. “This project presents an exciting opportunity to create a meaningful and inspiring installation that celebrates the innovation and craftsmanship that define our manufacturing programs. We look forward to seeing how artists bring these themes to life in the heart of our new manufacturing space.”
To ensure the endurance of the work long term, the work should not include elements that require high maintenance features (i.e., water, technology, elaborate lighting). Artists who require their art piece to be anchored to the wall or supported by the ceiling structure are required to work directly with our architect/structural engineer to ensure that artwork is properly secured.
This project continues LSC tradition of showcasing public art by introducing a fresh, engaging, and ADA accessible artwork. Space dimensions, ADA and code requirements, selection process and more can be found at https://www.lsc.edu/rfq.
Materials to be submitted:
- Resume/CV: Highlighting relevant experience.
- Work Samples: Up to 10 images of past 2D/3D installations.
- Work Sample Index: Include project descriptions and budgets.
- Cover Letter: Include the following narratives:
- How this project relates to your past work.
- Your approach to this project.
- Responses to:
- What inspires you about the LSC Manufacturing Building and its cultural, historical, and social context?
- What factors would you consider when proposing materials and installation methods for this public art project?
All materials must be submitted electronically by March 24, 2025 at 6 p.m. via https://duluthartinstitute.submittable.com/login. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Any questions regarding the RFQ may be directed in writing to Lake Superior College President Dr. Patricia Rogers at patricia.rogers@lsc.edu.
For more information please visit: https://www.lsc.edu/rfq.
