Santa Cruz Co. Libraries Seek Artists For Local Projects

By Tony Hicks, Bay City News Foundation

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — The Santa Cruz County Department of Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services is looking for a few talented artists.

The agency wants local artists to contribute public art to library projects in Live Oak and Aptos.

The county needs an artist to create a site-specific public art component for the new Live Oak Library Annex at the Simpkins Family Swim Center.

"The proposed site-specific public artwork should help create an inviting outdoor space where people of all ages will gather, learn, connect, and share," the department said in a statement. "In addition, proposals should reflect the Live Oak community's identity and history and may incorporate a literary element and/or community participation component."

The budget for the public artwork, including but not limited to design, materials, travel, insurance, fabrication, installation, and documentation of the artwork, is $85,500.

Officials will also select an artist to create a site-specific public art component for the new Aptos Library.

According to a county statement, "The new library's design will be inspired by the concept of "forest, coastal, and terrace" and other local environmental elements. The proposed site-specific public artwork should help create an inviting space where people of all ages will gather, learn, connect, and share. Proposals should reflect the community's identity and values while celebrating the unique culture and natural beauty of Aptos and may incorporate a literary element and/or community participation component."

Proposals for this project must also address outdoor fencing and gate needs. The budget for this project, including but not limited to design, materials, travel, insurance, fabrication, installation, and documentation of the artwork, is $106,000.

Both calls to artists are due Jan. 21, 2022. For detailed information about the application, processes, site plans and other materials, people can click here.

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