One Stop Shop Call for Artists

Call for Artists: One Stop Shop Public Art Project

The City of Sarasota invites professional artists and artist teams to apply for a new site‑specific public art commission at the City’s One Stop Shop, located at 1575 Second Street in downtown Sarasota. This prominent civic building serves thousands of residents, businesses, and visitors each year, offering an opportunity to create artwork that enhances the public realm and reflects Sarasota’s creative identity.

The City is seeking innovative, durable exterior artwork that complements the surrounding urban environment and responds to the building’s modernist architectural character. Artists may propose a single large‑scale installation, a series of coordinated elements, or an integrated approach across multiple building façades.

Project Budget

Up to $100,000, inclusive of design, engineering, fabrication, installation, lighting integration, travel, and all project‑related expenses.

Eligibility

Open to professional artists and artist teams with experience completing public art projects of similar scale. Artists on the City’s 2024–2026 Artist Roster are encouraged to apply, and applicants who meet evaluation thresholds may be considered for future roster inclusion.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted exclusively through Codaworx. Artists must submit their qualifications, initial concept intent, portfolio samples, and responses to required prompts through the Codaworx portal. New users will be prompted to create a free Codaworx account before applying.

Click Here to View the Full Project Scope and Apply

Timeline

July 1 – August 31. 2026 — Call open
September 1 – September 27, 2026 — Stakeholder jury shortlists three finalists
October 1 – October 15, 2026 — Public feedback period for three finalists
November 4, 2026 at 1:30 pm— Finalist presentations and Public Art Committee selection of artist

FAQ

How do I apply?

Artists or artist teams can apply through the official Codaworx posting for this opportunity. The application portal includes full submission instructions, required materials, and the deadline.

Apply here:
https://www.codaworx.com/rfq/detail/100000-sitespecific-public-art-opportunity-city-of-sarasota-one-stop-shop

Submission Requirements:
Applicants must submit:

A written initial concept describing the proposed artistic direction
A portfolio with high-quality visuals of past completed artwork
A current résumé or CV for all team members
Contact information for the lead artist
Any optional preliminary visuals that support the concept

Full renderings or final designs are not required at this stage. All design‑development work after selection should be included in the total project budget.

Deadline:
Please refer to the Codaworx link above for the official submission deadline and any updates. Deadlines listed on Codaworx are the City’s governing deadlines for this call.

For questions or to arrange a site visit, contact:
PublicArt@SarasotaFL.gov

What level of detail is expected for the initial concept idea?

At this stage, artists or artist teams should submit a written concept that communicates the direction of the proposed artwork and how it responds to the site. Fully developed renderings or engineered drawings are not required.

Applicants may include preliminary visuals if they feel these help illustrate their approach. More developed early concepts can strengthen an application, but they are optional. What is most important is that the concept is clearly articulated and supported by a strong portfolio of past work.

Design development should be included in the project budget. After selection, one artist or artist team will complete the final design in collaboration with City staff, building representatives, and community stakeholders.

Is AI‑generated artwork allowed?

Significant use of AI to generate application materials is strongly discouraged. Reviewers rely on evidence of an artist’s or team’s direct creative abilities, craft, and project management skills. Applicants should ensure that all materials reflect their own authentic practice.

How important are visuals of past artwork?

Visuals of past artwork are very important. This is a qualifications‑based selection process, and your portfolio is a major factor in the review. Applicants should include clear, well‑documented images of completed projects that demonstrate artistic quality, durability, and the ability to execute work at a similar scale and complexity.

Are full renderings or finalized designs required?

No. Full renderings, final designs, or technical drawings are not required. Preliminary visuals may be included but should be consistent with the written concept and your experience. Final design work will occur after selection.

Is there a stipend for finalists?

No. Only one artist or artist team will be selected, and there is no finalist stipend. All design‑development work after selection should be included in the artist’s total project budget.

How many artists or artist teams will be selected?

One.

What happens after the artist or artist team is selected?

After selection, the artist or team will begin design development in collaboration with City staff, building representatives, and community stakeholders. This process refines the concept, confirms materials, and addresses site‑specific needs. Design development should be included in the artist’s project budget.

May I submit a concept that differs from the work shown in my portfolio?

You may, but the concept should relate to the experience and capabilities demonstrated in your portfolio. Reviewers rely heavily on past work to understand how you will execute your proposed idea. Concepts that have a clear connection to your documented experience tend to be more competitive.

What type of visuals can be submitted?

Visuals are optional. If you choose to include them, they should support or clarify your written concept. While detailed renderings are not required, thoughtful visuals can strengthen an application, especially for large‑scale public art opportunities.

What makes for a competitive submission?

Competitive submissions typically include:

A clear and well‑articulated initial concept that responds to the site.
A portfolio demonstrating successfully completed projects of similar scale or technical complexity.
Evidence of strong project management skills and ability to work in the public realm.
Experience collaborating with communities, agencies, or design professionals.

Building Images

City of Sarasota One Stop Shop - Aerial — COS-One-Stop-Shop.png