The McLean Community Center (MCC) is inviting local artists to undertake two public art projects to commemorate its 50th anniversary next year.
One of the commissioned pieces is a mural planned for the rear wall of the Old Firehouse Center at 1440 Chain Bridge Road. The second installation is a sculpture targeted for the rear plaza of the community center, located at 1234 Ingleside Avenue.
MCC is currently accepting applications from individual artists and “teams” through Aug. 16.
Those interested are being asked to apply through a call for entry portal with a statement of interest, resume, images of past work and professional references.
Artists invited to submit proposals and undergo interviews will receive a $500 honorarium. Finalists will be notified in mid-September, per a press release.
According to the release, the center wants the mural to “express civic pride, showcase the diversity of the McLean community and provide place-making for the area.” The artist or team will also have the chance to gather community feedback to inform the design.
For the sculpture, MCC says it’s seeking something visually striking that incorporates its logo: a block with an interlocking M and C’s.
“The design should increase the visibility and identity of the MCC,” the release said. “The art should be recognizable from a distance with a strong day and nighttime presence. It should be engaging from all angles/directions and include interactive elements, such as seating, while ensuring safety.”
The budget for the mural project, which includes everything from the artist fee to design and installation, is $30,000. The budget for the sculpture is $80,000.
