RFP for Public Art Mural (R St & Fahren's Park Undercrossing)

The City of Merced is seeking an artist (or artistic team) to design, fabricate, and install a public‑art mural on the north wall of the undercrossing between R Street and Fahrens Park. The mural must cover approximately 86 linear feet by 10 feet high, celebrate community culture, and may include interactive elements such as AR or tactile features. Proposals must be submitted physically by the deadline, include a full‑color rendering, artist qualifications, budget, and must fit within a $20,000 project budget. Evaluation will focus on artistic excellence, feasibility, community impact, site‑specific design, durability, and experience. • Scope: Concept design, surface preparation, painting (or other media), possible interactive components, and maintenance plan. • Budget cap: $20,000 (project feasibility is a scoring criterion). • Timeline: RFP posted 01/23/2026, questions due 02/06/2026, submission deadline 03/06/2026, selection panel review early March, City Council award 04/06/2026, work to begin after notice to proceed. • Requirements: Physical submission (mail/hand‑delivery), artist statement, portfolio of ≥3 prior works, references, and a detailed cost breakdown. Preference may be given to locally‑connected artists but is not mandatory.