Artist Selection Process
When an art opportunity arises, artists are normally selected by an open call through a request for qualifications (RFQ) process. Artists who wish to be considered for future projects should send their email to clange@charlottenc.gov and ask to be added to the CATS Art in Transit Artist Roster. When an open call is initiated, it will be sent to the Artist Roster and posted to CaFÉ www.callforentry.org. Calls are open for approximately 6-8 weeks, and there is no application fee.
Community Involvement
To ensure meaningful community involvement in the Art in Transit Program, CATS invites members of project communities to inform the artist selection process. Community members work with the artist selection panelists, project team, and CATS staff to compile information about the project location, demographics, history, and users to assist panelists in choosing artists. Artists use the information to create art relevant to the overall project and surrounding area.
Artist Selection Panel
CATS recommends qualified art professionals to serve on artist selection panels. It is the responsibility of these panelists to select a diverse range of artists capable of creating high-quality public art appropriate to each project.
Art Criteria
In keeping with national best practices to incorporate art into mass transit, CATS subscribes to the following criteria when artists are involved in transit projects:
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Quality of art or design
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Impact on transit users or other public audiences
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Connection to site and/or adjacent community
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Appropriateness for site, including safety and scale
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Durability and resistance to vandalism
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Minimal maintenance requirements
Art in Transit Advisory Committee
An advisory committee of art professionals is appointed by CATS’ CEO to guide and inform the Art in Transit Program. The advisory committee meets as needed to advise on commissioning public art; recommending artist selection panelists; reviewing proposals, art plans, and budgets; and ensuring community involvement, public education, and program promotion to keep the community informed.