paint the kansas ave. bridge - rfp

The NOTO Arts & Entertainment District invites proposals from qualified visual artists or artist teams to serve as the Lead Artist for a major public art installation under the Kansas Avenue Bridge in Veterans Park. The project will transform the bridge's structural components—specifically, 8 sets of 3 piers and cap structures—into a cohesive series of vibrant murals that narrate the North Topeka Story.

North Topeka's dramatic journey—from industrial boom to disaster, from civil rights activism to cultural revival—offers a powerful narrative for public art. Murals should focus on historical, cultural, and community-based themes such as resilience, diversity, civil rights, rebirth, and connectivity, rooted in the area’s unique journey from Native land to industrial hub to thriving arts district, that resonate deeply with residents and visitors alike.

The selected Lead Artist will:

• Develop an original design concept for the bridge murals, reflecting the narrative themes outlined below.
• Assemble and oversee a support artist team.
• Coordinate all design, planning, prep, and execution of the mural-including sealing of mural, with NOTO staff and community partners.
• Provide a detailed project timeline, budget, and implementation plan.
• Ensure final artwork is completed by June 15, 2026.
• Participate in community unveiling during Semiquincentennial Celebrations on our around July 4, 2026.