By JM Simpson
Tenino is looking to commission two mural projects on city buildings; bids are due by July 1.
The city’s ARCH (Arts, Recreation, Culture, History & Business) Commission and staff will review proposals for one mural on the west wall of the Tenino Timberland Library and another on the north wall of the Recreation Field Concession Building.
“We have released a Request for Proposals,” wrote Jessica Reeves-Rush, the city’s Parks, Arts, Recreation and Culture specialist, in an email. “We want to get the word out to artists.”
Click here to see details and links to both requests for proposal.
The Tenino Timberland Library Mural Project
The spot is visible on Olympia Street, where the Tenino Farmer’s Market is located. The theme of this mural is the city’s famous waterfall and quarry pool. “This is a place-making project that will remind visitors they have arrived at the core of downtown Tenino … and this mural will promote connectivity between downtown and the park,” explained Reeves-Rush.
She pointed out that the Tenino Memorial Quarry Pool is not just a place to swim but is also a location for community and friends to gather. “The public pool features a unique waterfall,” she added “and this waterfall is the theme of the mural.”
In addition to the waterfall, the ARCH Commission thinks the mural should include elements of swimmers and recreators, the flora and fauna in the forest above the quarry, and – as an acknowledgement to the library – a sunbather reading a book. “Beyond these elements, the applicant (artists) may use their imaginations through text and/or imagery,” added Reeves-Rush.
The city has budgeted $5,000 for this project.
The Tenino Recreation Field Mural Project
Located in Tenino City Park, the north wall of the Recreation Field Concession Building is where city intends to place the other mural. It will be visible from the Yelm-Tenino Trail.
“This project will surprise visitors and create a greater sense of place in the Tenino City Park,” continued Reeves-Rush. A suggested theme for the mural is the city’s Charlie Fly Field. Beyond that, muralists have a free hand in what they wish to paint.
“This mural will promote recreation and art … it should be vibrant and inviting.”
This project also has a budget of $5,000. Both project fees are inclusive of all supplies necessary to successfully complete the project, including priming and sealing.
The Request for Proposals (RFP)
The RFP seeks submissions for both projects from individual artists or an artists’ collective. From the RFP process, up to five submissions may be selected and presented the opportunity to interview with City of Tenino representatives and the ARCH Commission to refine design proposals.
All questions related to the RFPs (see attachments) should be directed by email to jreevesrush@cityoftenino.org.
The closing date for artists’ electronic submissions in July 1, 2024 before 4:00 p.m. Submissions should be in a PDF file.
The city plans to invite finalists to meet with project liaisons for a site tour. A final selection will be based on the submissions that best meet or exceed the evaluations outlined in the RFPs.
