The Forks is looking for local emerging artists to express interest in producing a new public art commission for Railside at The Forks. This is the second of two public art calls for the new mixed-use residential development, with local artist Ian August having been selected through the initial established artist call that went out in 2023.
“Public art changes and engages a space. It attracts people and strengthens a person’s relationship with their environment,” says Sara Stasiuk, Chief Executive Officer, The Forks. “As we build Railside we are building a place for people, and this means building more of The Forks, and more of The Forks means more public art.”
The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process will give the opportunity for up to three selected finalists to each develop a proposal. The Artist Selection Panel will then choose the winner from the developed works of those finalists.
The two-part call, with August being selected as the established artist first, was intentional. The objective is to have August mentor the winning emerging artist through the final design and fabrication process. The objective is to encourage creative collaboration, build connections, and enrich the work of both artists.
The Forks has partnered with STEPS Public Art – a national charity dedicated to creating inclusive spaces through public art – to put out this call and to facilitate the mentorship component.
“Fostering creativity and giving space for art and contemplation is a part of how we do things here at The Forks,” says Stasiuk. “It’s about offering experiences to people at all points in their careers and building capacity for now and into the future. It’s also about creating a special space for future residents and visitors at Railside.”
The Forks has become known for its collection of public art, now numbering over 30 works from around the world with many by Manitoba artists. From Ai Weiwei’s Forever Bicycles, to KC Adams, Jaimie Isaac, and Val Vint’s Niimaamaa, to numerous murals inside The Forks Market and parkade, these works are an important part of The Forks and engage visitors daily.
The selected work will be completed and installed at Railside at The Forks upon completion of the public courtyards and spaces. These spaces, including both new public artworks, have been generously supported by The Winnipeg Foundation, through a $200,000 capital grant to The Forks Foundation.
View the RFQ HERE.