Beacon of Service: An Innovative Sculpture for Fire & EMS

Background

The City of Durham’s Cultural & Public Art Program, in partnership with the Durham County Public Art Program, is seeking an Artist or Artist Team to create a site-specific public art installation for the new Fire and EMS Station 19 located on Davis Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement and public safety facilities in the RTP area. The total budget for this project is $255,000, which covers all aspects from design through installation. The artwork should reflect the critical work of Fire & EMS personnel and highlight the networks of care that protect the community.

Work Details

The selected artist(s) will be responsible for creating a signature artwork that may incorporate technology, light, movement, and dynamic elements to visualize service patterns and response journeys of Fire & EMS operations. Key components include: - Interpretations of Fire & EMS service through contemporary design including kinetic or data-responsive elements. - Integration with the facility’s LEED Gold commitment. - Collaboration with City and County staff, Fire & EMS personnel, and construction teams throughout design and construction phases from 2026 to 2028. - Community engagement activities to gather input from residents before finalizing designs. - Development of a comprehensive maintenance plan for the artwork.

Period of Performance

The contract will be performed from 2026 through 2028, covering design, fabrication, and installation phases.

Place of Performance

The artwork will be installed at the new Fire and EMS Station 19 located on Davis Drive in Research Triangle Park, NC.

Bidder Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate experience in large-scale public art projects and site-integrated design. They should include an Artist Mentee in their team who is an emerging or mid-career artist based in Durham or surrounding areas. Insurance requirements include Commercial General Liability insurance with limits of no less than $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate.