call for artists: lawrence heights indoor public art

The City of Toronto invites practicing artists, including artist teams, to submit their Expression of Interest to the first stage of a public art competition for the new Lawrence Heights Community Recreation Centre (CRC).

Project Background

The vision for the new Lawrence Heights CRC was co-created with the community. The space will be:

• alive with the energy of the many communities it serves
• a welcoming, inclusive and safe space for all communities to gather, connect and grow together
• a place of play, fitness, food, sport, health, music, art, learning, belonging, connection, strength and fun
• where diversity is celebrated and community aspirations are reflected and embraced.

Building construction is expected to start in 2025, with completion anticipated for 2028.

Stage One – Request for Expression of Interest: January 10 to March 20

The Selection Panel will review all applications and identify a shortlist of a maximum of four artists. EOIs will be evaluated based on artistic excellence, related experience, connection between their practice and the project, and appropriateness for the community and site. The artists selected for the shortlist will have the perceived ability to create and execute an innovative, engaging public artwork that is complimentary to the overall design scheme and context. The City may also consider the applicants’ past performance on previous contracts with the City of Toronto or Agencies, Boards or Commissions of the City.

Stage Two – Shortlisted Artists develop concept proposals: Late April to Early October

The shortlisted artists will be notified in late April and invited to submit a conceptual design proposal. A detailed Terms of Reference document will be provided to help shortlisted artists prepare their proposals. Proposals are due on July 10 at noon. Shortlisted artists will be paid a fee of $2,500 plus HST for this stage.

The concept proposals will go through feasibility reviews and community consultations. Shortlisted artists will present their proposals to the Selection Panel on September 26. One concept will be commissioned based on evaluation criteria (specifically tailored to this project), community consultation results, and additional feedback from community members and advisors.