The Stratford City Centre BIA – Beautification Sub-Committee is developing an artist roster of emerging, mid-career, and established mural artists and artist teams who will be pre-qualified for consideration to create public murals as part of the City of Stratford’s Downtown Beautification and Animation initiatives. The design goal is to enhance the commercial downtown core as a cultural destination and create a welcoming environment for visitors and residents of all ages.

Process:

All artists having submitted complete applications in accordance with the specified standards will be added to the prequalified artist roster. Submitting artists should be aware that inclusion in the pre-qualified artist roster does not guarantee a commission of artwork.

A selection panel consisting of at least two member of the Beautification Sub-Committee, at least two members of the professional arts community (at least one to be a professional curator), and a community representative, will review the submissions for the pre-qualified artists roster. A short-list of artists from the pre-qualified artists roster will be selected by a selection panel consisting of at least one member of the Beautification Sub-Committee, at least two members of the professional arts community, the property owner (or designated representative) and a community representative for individual mural projects as they arise.

Evaluation Criteria

Artistic Merit: Overall quality of past work and professional standing in arts community. (40 Points)

Project Context: Resonance of artists’ professional practice to Stratford as reflected through examples of past work. (20 Points)

Project Experience: Past work as indication of the applicant’s ability to manage similar projects, including familiarity with public agencies, the public review process, and experience working with downtown businesses, municipal government and community groups. Past work as an indication of the artist’s ability to successfully complete a mural project within a stated budget and timeline. (30 Points)

Stratford Connection: To encourage and promote local talent, preference will be given to artists and artist teams who live, work or have a connection to Stratford or Perth County. (10 Points)

Total Points: 100