Breadboard currently seeks applicants for its first
Art Along the Avenue of Technology (AAAT) Artist
Residency program. The selected artist will collaborate with the
University City Science Center and the surrounding West Philly community to create tech-based public art projects for the campus' Market Street corridor.
The program is part of
Percent for Arts, a
Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority (PRA) initiative wherein building developers set aside funds for public art projects. Percent for Arts began in 1959 and has funded 400 projects, mostly large outdoor sculptures (including the clothespin at 15th and Market Streets). David Clayton, Breadboard's program manager, says AAAT will depart from that convention.
"With the traditional public art process, the artist really could be anywhere when they design the work," says Clayton. "A big part of the [AAAT] program is that the artist will really be here, working in the community and developing their work as an open process."
According to Clayton, AAAT projects -- funded through the recent construction of 3701 and 3711 Market Street -- could take a variety of forms, including video projections, electronic music installations, performance art, interactive sculpture or educational workshops. The Science Center will partner with PRA's Fine Arts Committee on the selection process.
With over $160,000 in funding set aside, Breadboard welcomes applications from candidates both in and outside the Philadelphia region. They are releasing a Request For Qualifications and don’t expect artists to submit proposals.
"We don't have a defined outcome in mind," explains Clayton. "We're putting the ball in their court in terms of creativity."
Source: David Clayton, Breadboard; Jeanne Mell, the University City Science Center
Writer: Dana Henry