Public Art Commission
The RFQ closed August 18, 2023.
Request for Qualifications (RFQ)
The City of Cedar Rapids seeks applications for artworks/designs that can be reproduced as vinyl wraps and applied to five (5) traffic signal control boxes in Cedar Rapids. This opportunity is open to local visual artists, illustrators, designers, and otherwise creative individuals working in any medium, as long as the final artworks can be translated and digitally reproduced on a three-dimensional vinyl wrap.
The goal of this project is to enhance public spaces in highly visible areas and to foster a welcoming environment through public art, as identified in the Westdale Area Action Plan. The Traffic Signal Control Box Art Wrap Project artist stipend of $3,500 is for approved final designs of five (5) original artworks to be displayed as art wraps on five (5) traffic signal control boxes. Review the entire Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and timeline below:
Traffic Signal Box RFQ
Public Art Plan
The Public Art Plan utilizes input from residents and stakeholders to define a vision for the City’s public art program. The plan sets the framework to achieve these community goals. The plan's primary goal is to continue to enhance the artistic identity and cultural life in Cedar Rapids for its residents, businesses and visitors.
The City's first Public Art Plan was adopted by City Council on April 26, 2022:
The Public Art Commission
The Public Art Commission exists to select and preserve visual art in public places for the public good. The Commission seeks to incorporate public art into various dimensions of city planning, encourages the efforts of local artists, and provides advice and assistance in the fielding of public arts competitions. By enhancing the vitality and identity of the community, the Commission strives to enhance the quality of life of those who live in or visit the city of Cedar Rapids. The Commission desires the involvement of the community in selecting, dedicating, preserving and in some cases financing the artwork.
General Meeting & Member Information
Meetings are held at 3:30 pm on the second Thursday of each month at City Hall, 101 First Street SE, unless otherwise announced.
The Public Art Commission is a nine member, Mayor-appointed commission, serving rotating three-year terms. Terms are indicated in parenthesis and expire on June 30 of the corresponding year.
Current Members
- M. Kayt Conrad (2024) - Chair
- John Soukup (2024)
- Julie Stow (2024)
- David Van Allen (2024)
- David Maier (2025) - Vice Chair
- Elizabeth Rhoads Read (2025)
- Isacc Davis (2026)
- Heather Wagner (2026)
- Pam White (2026)
Explore Public Art in Cedar Rapids
If you are aware of any pieces of art accessible to the public that are missing from the map above, please contact CD-Plan@cedar-rapids.org to have them added.
Now with audio! Explore downtown public art with a self-guided mobile Art Tour
Downloadable Downtown Art Tour PDF
SCAVENGER HUNT PACKET
Click the button above to download your scavenger hunt packet. If you are stuck, visit the Clue & Answer Page for help!
DOWNLOAD BINGO GAME
Cedar Rapids Public Art BINGO
Enjoy our outdoor public art collection with this drive-by bingo game, created by resident Jana Madsen. The set includes four bingo boards, and a list of addresses where you can find the artworks.
Artist Contact List
Are you a local artist? Would you like to receive Calls for Artists from the City for public art projects?
Please send your name, number, and email to CD-Plan@cedar-rapids.org to be placed on our Artist Contact List.
Art Donations
The City of Cedar Rapids welcomes gifts, but reserves the right to evaluate their appropriateness before accepting them.
Art donation application
Applications may be sent to City Hall, 101 First Street SE, Cedar Rapids IA 52401 or emailed to the Community Development Department at cd-plan@cedar-rapids.org.
History Restored: The City Hall Murals
At their October 11, 2022 meeting, City Council adopted a resolution to rename the Visual Arts Commission as the Public Art Commission.
