Public Art: Boones Ferry Park - 'The Essence of the River' RFQ

The City of Wilsonville, Oregon is requesting qualifications from talented artist(s) and/or artist team(s) to create a new and engaging public artwork(s) for Boones Ferry Park, a ~15-acre park adjacent to the Willamette River. Also located at this park is the historic Tauchman House, formerly the home to the operator of the historic Boones Ferry. A large new inclusive playground, installed in 2024 has reactivated and enlivened this space. The playground design includes themes of the City’s History and the significance of the Willamette River.

This park is intended to serve the larger community as well as the local neighborhood.; The 2018 Boones Ferry Master Plan is the result of an extensive public process involving members of the general public, City Council, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Planning Commission, as well as Wilsonville Parks and Recreation staff. Within the plan, a desire for a greater connection to the river was a common theme. The plan takes this to heart and combines it with a desire to retain aspects that make Boones Ferry Park special today, including its quiet greenness, relaxed atmosphere, and connection to the historic past.

The theme for this Public Art Project is “The Essence of the River.” The Willamette River flows from west to east through town and was historically the site of a ferry and sternwheeler landing.

It is desired that the artwork(s) celebrates and pulls inspiration from the river and surrounding natural areas in the park. The artwork(s) should be site-specific and engaging for users of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Universal design can be thought of as an intersection of inclusivity, accessibility, and usability for community members regardless of age, disability, or other factors.

The awarded artist/ team should display a strong portfolio of engaging, complex, and interactive public art projects depicting experience and effectiveness working with a variety of stakeholders to receive and implement feedback. The project awardee should be capable of managing their fabrication and installation, while coordinating and communicating effectively with City Staff.

Submit your application directly through the Call For Entry (CaFE) portal at: www.callforentry.org

Key words “Essence of the River, Boones Ferry Park, Wilsonville, OR”

Budget: To not exceed $100,000

For details: https://www.ci.wilsonville.or.us/residents/page/public-art