Mural Themes Would Reflect Mission Of Lunch Break, Red Bank

RED BANK, NJ — As anyone can see who goes by the Lunch Break headquarters on Drs. James Parker Boulevard, construction is moving along on a more expansive and efficient space.

The food and social services resource center in Red Bank is undergoing a $12 million expansion and work is nearly completed, but there is no firm move-in date as yet.

But the organization now wants to think ahead about how to make the new building even more inviting for the community through an exterior mural that captures the spirit of the nonprofit social service agency.

And it is seeking proposals from experienced artists to create a work that represents the Lunch Break vision of "a cohesive and inclusive community where everyone works together for the greater good."

The mural will be prominently displayed on the front exterior wall of the organization's new community center building, at the northeast corner, it says.

The period for submissions is Oct. 1 to Jan. 2, 2024.

Lunch Break provided some guidelines for artists, and an elevation of the proposed project can be found on its website.

Project overview:

The purpose of the project is to transform a blank wall into a beautiful and engaging work of art that resonates with our diverse community members.

The mural should evoke a sense of unity, belonging, collaboration and celebration while giving voice to the issues of those we serve in our community.

It should inspire hope, understanding, generosity, compassion and respect, promoting an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusivity.

Theme and vision:

The mural's theme should center around the idea of "Cohesive, Inclusive and Supportive Community," emphasizing the following elements:

• Encompass these elements of the Lunch Break’s mission: Healthy Meals, Open Hearts, Warm Home and Unlimited Potential.
• A memorial to Mrs. Norma Todd, a photo, quote etc.
• Celebrating Diversity: Showcase the various cultures, backgrounds, and identities that make up the community, promoting an atmosphere of acceptance and appreciation.
• Collaboration and Togetherness: Illustrate people from different walks of life coming together to support and uplift each other, working hand in hand to support the Lunch Break mission.
• Sense of Belonging: Create a welcoming atmosphere that instills a feeling of belonging for everyone who encounters the mural.
• Inspirational and Positive: The mural should evoke positive emotions and inspire individuals to participate actively in building a stronger, more inclusive community. (Hope for Tomorrow)
• Acknowledgement of the Struggle: The mural should give voice to the issues and struggles of those we serve.

Project scope:

• Mural Dimensions: The wall consists of 8 panels that are 48 inches (wide) by 107 inches; overall size is 32 feet (wide) by 8 feet, 11 inches high.
• The panels to be painted are located on the front exterior of the building, facing the northeast corner.
• Materials: High-quality, weather-resistant materials suitable for long-term outdoor display to be used.
• Artistic Style: Artists are encouraged to demonstrate their unique styles while aligning with the overall theme and vision.
• Timeline: The project is expected to be completed by April 2024, weather permitting.

Submission guidelines:

Interested artists are requested to submit the following documents with their proposals:

• Portfolio: A comprehensive portfolio showcasing no more than 10 digital images of previous work in this genre highlighting relevant themes and community-focused works. Images should be no more than 2 MB each and should be in JPEG format.
• Concept Design: A detailed concept design of the proposed mural, including sketches, color schemes, and a written explanation of how it reflects the theme.
• Budget: A comprehensive budget outlining all expenses, including materials, labor, and any additional on-going maintenance costs. (A "sustentation plan.")
• Timeline: A proposed timeline for the completion of the project, including key milestones.
• References: Contact information for at least two references from previous mural projects.
• Must include a Sustentation Plan. (See above.)

Submission deadline:

• Proposals will be accepted electronically beginning Oct. 1 through Jan. 2, 2024. Submissions should be sent to JP Nicolaides at Jnicolaides@lunchbreak.org. Late submissions will not be considered. Please contact Nicolaides for any clarifications or questions.

FAQ sessions:

Two session for questions are scheduled: One for Friday, Sept. 29, at 8:30 a.m. and on Monday, Oct. 23, at 7:30 p.m. Please use the following link to register for FAQ sessions: https://rb.gy/dmtl6

Selection process:

A selection committee will evaluate proposals based on creativity, relevance to the theme, artistic merit, and the artist's experience in community-engaged projects. Shortlisted artists will be invited for an interview to further discuss their proposals.

"We thank our talented artists for their contributions. We look forward to reviewing the proposals and working together to create a powerful and inspiring mural," the agency said.

Lunch Break is a 501(c)3 organization located in Red Bank, providing food, clothing, housing solutions, life skills, and fellowship to residents of greater Monmouth County.

All Lunch Break services are free. Visit www.lunchbreak.org.