Call for Muralists for Mural Restoration and Conservation Projects

AMOUNT

$10,000 to $25,000, all inclusive

GRANTING ORGANIZATION

City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) Public Art Division

DEADLINE

Nov 13, 2022 - 11:59 pm

STATUS

Open

CONTACT

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For questions about this RFP, please contact Yami Duarte, DCA Public Art Division, at: dca.publicart@lacity.org with subject line “DCA Mural Works.”

Request for Proposals (RFP)

The Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) is seeking muralists to propose their own historically significant murals located in the City of Los Angeles that need conservation. The mural conservation proposal must include a paid youth apprenticeship opportunity for young people from the mural’s local neighborhood. Selected mural conservation projects should also depict the social justice theme(s) of the mural, notable cultural figures, or important histories that are meaningful to residents.

Preservation of these historic murals will serve as cultural markers, connect them to the social justice themes of today, and inspire multiple conversations between the past and the present.

Submission Workshop

For project goals, criteria, eligibility, budget, selection process, workshop info, and how to apply, download the RFP below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this RFP for original artists to propose restoring their own murals?

This Call is intended for the original artists to propose restoring their own mural. If the original artist is unable to restore their own work, the proposing artist will need to get a letter of permission from the original artist to restore their mural.

What is the difference between conservation and restoration?

Conservation is the practice of preserving the original materials used to create the mural, and restoration is the reconstruction of the original imagery with new materials.

Is this opportunity to restore an existing mural only or can I create a new one with a team?

This opportunity is for the restoration of an existing mural. There will be a call for new murals in Spring 2023.

Can one applicant submit for multiple murals?

One applicant can submit multiple proposals. However, only one mural per applicant will be selected.

Do you have a list of proposed locations or priority areas for the Mural Works RFP?

No, but murals located in lower socioeconomic neighborhoods will be prioritized.

Who are the contractors applying the permanent coatings mentioned in the proposal? How could we become a contractor for mural coatings?

The Department of Public Works’ contractor’s are licensed to apply graffiti coatings on murals. Please contact the Department of Public Works Office of Community Beautification for information on how to become a city contractor.

How firm is the requirement that the mural be at least 15 years old?

The panel will prioritize murals which are at least 15 years old.

Can murals located in LA County qualify?

The mural must be located in the City of Los Angeles. To determine if the mural location address falls within the City’s jurisdiction, use the zimas.lacity.org website.

Should our total budget include the youth component?

Yes, your budget should include the youth stipends.

Do we need to provide a breakdown of the budget?

A budget breakdown in pdf format is a recent addition to the application form. The line-item budget should reflect ALL costs such as artist fees, youth worker stipend, labor, equipment, rentals, materials, general liability insurance, and a 15% contingency. Please note that the protective coating will be coordinated and paid for separately by DCA.

Can we fold other community art related activities into the budget other than mural restoration?

You may include other community engagement activities into your project and budget. However, the bulk of the budget should be for mural restoration costs.

When will we know if we were awarded the commission?

The selected artists will be notified in early January 2023.

Is there a time limitation on the money to be spent, and when is the project to start and begin?

The mural project should begin in Spring 2023 and not exceed one year.

How can youth be selected for the opportunity?

The artist(s) may use their own selection process. If you are unable to locate youth to assist you with your project, please contact the Youth Development Department (YDD), aksel.palacio@lacity.org, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Government Affairs, for assistance with reaching local youth.

Is insurance required for the youth?

The lead artist will be required to hold a general liability policy for up to $1 million dollars. Please check with your insurance carrier about the best way to provide coverage, if needed, for the youth working with you.

Is this the only application window or will there be multiple windows throughout the year to submit murals for restoration?

This is the only application window for mural restoration funding at this time. The next application window will be for new murals in Spring 2023.