The MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent is looking for local artists interested in expanding their work beyond the canvas.
Amateur and professional artists are being invited to submit proposals to decorate four pianos and their protective housing, in conjunction with the launch of a public piano project in collaboration with the municipalities of Franklin, Saint-Anicet, Saint-Chrysostome, and Sainte-Barbe. Once painted, the pianos will be installed this summer in outdoor venues that are accessible to the public.
Project proposals must be colourful and dynamic. There are no specific guidelines concerning the overall concept, design, or theme; however, MRC cultural development agent Nancy Brunelle suggests highlighting a certain element or aspect related to one of the participating municipalities would be an asset. All project submissions do have to include an element of citizen participation, either as part of the concept, the design, or production.
Artists residing in one of the 13 municipalities of the Haut-Saint-Laurent who are interested in participating are asked to provide a brief explanation of the proposed concept and the citizens involved in the process, as well as a list of materials to be used. Proposals should also include a CV and examples of two previous works of art that demonstrate the ability to carry out this type of work. Amateur artists may substitute a CV with a letter detailing their artistic experience and motivation for participating in the project.
Only the visible parts of the pianos are to be painted, and submissions must also include designs for the protective housing for the pianos. The work must be completed by mid-June. A budget of $1,000 will be allocated to each of the selected artists, which includes professional fees, equipment, materials, and mileage.
The deadline to submit a project is May 15. Accepted projects will be announced on May 19. An official unveiling of the pianos will take place during the summer. Proposals must be sent by email in a single document to the attention of Nancy Brunelle at nancy.brunelle@mrchsl.com.
More detailed information regarding eligibility criteria, design requirements, and time commitments can be found on the MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent’s website at mrchsl.com. (SR)
