The City of Grande Prairie is seeking Requests for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) from artists for the creation of a local monument celebrating the 125 anniversary of the Treaty 8 signing.

The anniversary takes place this year on June 21, and is a significant event for Grande Prairie to commemorate as we live, work and play on Treaty 8 territory.

About the Opportunity

Interested parties are invited to submit expressions of interest detailing their relative experience with designing and/or sculpting public art involving indigenous themes or collaborations.

Respondents are to provide up to three (3) conceptual sketches with their submission and any examples (photo’s) of previous related work.

The monument will be placed in an outdoor public location with a focus on high traffic, visibility and accessibility for members of the community to visit the monument and learn more about Treaty 8.

There are no restrictions on the type of materials that are used for the monument, however the materials must withstand the Grande Prairie climate.

When designing mock-ups for the monument, artists should focus on the following topics to ensure their proposals are comprehensive and aligned with the goals of the commemoration:

  1. Historical Significance: Convey the importance of Treaty 8, its context, and its impact over time.
  2. Community and Unity: Reflect on the diverse communities bound by Treaty 8, emphasizing unity, cooperation, and mutual respect.
  3. Natural Environment: Incorporate elements highlighting the significance of the land and natural resources within Treaty 8 territory.
  4. Resilience and Future Aspirations: Symbolize the resilience of the Treaty 8 peoples and their aspirations for the future.
  5. Educational Value: Ensure the design has an educational aspect, providing insights into Treaty 8 for future generations.

Responses will be evaluated using a detailed criterion based on:

·Artistic Vision and Relevance to Treaty 8

·Experience and Skill in Sculpture

·Cultural Awareness and Engagement

·Project Feasibility and Execution Plan

·Connection to Treaty 8 Territory

Interested parties can learn more and submit an RFEI at cityofgp.bidsandtenders.ca from until May 29, 2024 at 2 p.m. Mountain Time.

Information provided by the City of Grande Prairie