interpretive panels: public art opportunity

Creative Philadelphia announces a call to commission a series of permanent interpretive panels with integrated augmented reality (AR) components at the Municipal Services Building in Center City Philadelphia. 

This public art commission is part of a broader initiative that includes an upcoming public sculpture of Dr. Sadie T.M. Alexander by artist Vinnie Bagwell. Inspired by Sadie T.M. Alexander’s groundbreaking legacy in public service, these interpretive panels will celebrate the City of Philadelphia’s dedicated municipal employees, past, present and future, and provide deeper context for understanding Dr. Alexander’s impact on generations of Philadelphians. The interpretive panels will be located in front of the building’s landscaped areas, flanking the upcoming sculpture. The panels are intended to complement and support the overall site experience. 

This commission will provide an opportunity for an artist team to design and fabricate four (4) permanent, sculptural interpretive panels. These panels will incorporate augmented reality (AR) elements to expand storytelling beyond the physical surface of the artwork. 

All interested artists are invited to apply. Artists based in Philadelphia are strongly encouraged to apply; however, artists from outside the region will be considered. Please note that multiple in-person site visits will be required throughout the project, and all associated travel costs must be covered within the project budget. 

This is a two-part selection process consisting of: 

• Part 1: Submission of Qualifications 

• Part 2: Finalist Proposals and Interviews

Up to three (3) finalists will be invited to submit short, concept proposals and attend an interview. At no point should artists submit design proposals.