We are seeking to commission a suitably qualified and experienced artist or creative team to develop a public artwork which will be considered a significant cultural asset for the redevelopment of Chilwell Library in Newtown.
The budget for the commission is up to $25,000 + GST.
Overview
The Chilwell Library redevelopment will increase the current space within the library facility adding internal and external public meeting places. A large deck area will be situated at the rear of the building, overlooking the existing adjacent parklands. The public artwork will be situated at an optimum location at the entrance to the building.
Feedback from community has demonstrated enthusiasm for the public artwork to integrate with the library building development, as a subtle and sophisticated work. The Chilwell Library Public Art Commission aims to exemplify the vision for public art as expressed in the City of Greater Geelong’s Public Art Strategy and give consideration to the unique qualities of the site, place and culture of the region.
The artwork/s would be thoughtfully integrated within the overall development, in a prominent location near the entrance to the library, bringing further expression and feeling to the redeveloped library facility.
Context
Artists are invited to consider the following context as a part of preparing their responses.
- The Chilwell Library is located nearby the Barwon River. “Parwon”, the traditional name for this river, is the Wadawurrung word for Magpie.
- Newtown and Chilwell are rich in residential and industrial history. From 1839, industries such as tanneries, wool scours and soap works were developed on Chilwell’s river frontages.
- Submissions may be for a stand-alone 3D work/s; work/s integrated within the building, design and materials; or a combination of both.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists are encouraged to submit proposals.
Site details
The library site is located on Russell Street in Newtown, and is a feature of the Pakington Street precinct, a popular dining and retail area. The site proposed for the artwork/s faces north-west and is situated in the green space and on the featured brick wall in a prominent location at the entrance to the library, providing an engaging location for a contemporary public artwork. Connection to the adjacent parkland is a key principle for the building design and public art expression.
Power and water will be available on site and artworks relying upon these amenities will be considered, with respect to the project budget and ongoing maintenance requirements.
Project timeline and key milestones
| Milestones | Date |
| Commencement of expression of interest | 25 May 2022 |
| EOI submissions due (stage 1) | 9am, 27 June 2022 |
| Shortlisted artists selected & notified | 15 July 2022 |
| Shortlisted artists to attend site meeting | By negotiation |
| Detailed submissions due (stage 2) | 9am, 22 August 2022 |
| Successful artist commissioned | 2 September 2022 |
| Construction to commence | To be negotiated with successful artist |
| Construction complete | Practical completion of Chilwell Library is expected in June 2023 |
