About the Project

Funded through the City of Sacramento’s 2% for public art ordinance, the Sacramento Office of Arts and Culture (OAC) Art in Public Places (APP) program has been tasked with management of a new Public Art Project for the newly renovated Martin Luther King, Jr. Library (MLK Library) located at 7340 24th St. Bypass in Sacramento, CA. The city is soliciting an artist to design and install public art for this library location focusing on the current public entrance to the library, now accessed through the library parking lot. The ideal envisioned proposal and artwork will be three-dimensional sculptural artwork that can be installed on one or two entrance walls leading into the main doors. While the artwork may be figurative, abstract, or non-objective in design, the artwork should speak to the theme of civil rights and may be realized as sculptural relief panels or a series of constructed panels that can be installed directly on the brick walls leading to the front door entrance. Painted murals directly on the brick are not an acceptable medium for this commission opportunity. Professional artists who specialize in sculpture, sculptural relief panels, site specific design, or environmental installations are encouraged to apply. Additional consideration will be given to artists who have prior experience with or connections to the south Sacramento area and communities.

Total Award Amount: $151,500

Deadline for Submissions: Monday, October 26, 2026 at 11:59 PM

Apply Online: https://saccityarts.submittable.com/submit

Register for Information Session Monday, October 12, 2026 from 12pm – 1pm: https://cityofsacramento-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/xNKElvcfTHGFXJBASZzp9A

Questions: app@cityofsacramento.org

FAQ about the Request for Qualifications

Question: Would a dimensional mixed-media concept meet the project’s requirements, for example, painted/fabricated panels with sculptural relief elements that physically project outward from the wall?

Answer: YES. Relief work is described in the RFQ as the type of artwork we are looking for.

Question: Will you accept a mural design?

Answer: NO. unfortunately, mural proposals will NOT be accepted for this installation.

Question: Would you consider a mosaic work for this site.

Answer: YES. Mosaics are acceptable for this site.

Question: What can I do to make my application more competitive?

Answer: Please read the RFQ carefully. Fill out the application completely. and submit GOOD images of your past work. Also, please try to attend the information session on Monday October 12th from 12 – 1pm. There may be questions and insights from other applicants that you may find useful.