The Bethlehem Food Co-Op seeks a talented and experienced artist to design and lead creation of a large-scale installation on the theme of eating local, community food, and food culture. The commissioned art will be in a prominent area of our grocery co-op and visible to hundreds daily.

In the spirit of cooperative enterprise, the lead artist will work with the co-op’s Art Committee to build a diverse team of artists who reflect our community. The lead artist will provide guidance, direction, and oversight for contributing artists. The art will be created off-site and panelized for ease of installation within the finished store. A dimensioned drawing of the allotted space is available to view, below.

The lead artist will be responsible for the following:

  • Developing the concept and design for the art installation.
  • Managing a team of selected community artists. A strong candidate will be able to propose ideas for engaging other local artists and the community in aspects of the art process.
  • Coordinating with the project team, design team, and art committee to ensure the art installation stays within outlined parameters.
  • Selecting the medium.
  • Selecting and purchasing materials.
  • Supervising the art off-site.
  • Ensuring the art is completed on time and within budget.

Who you are:

  • 5+ years of experience creating large-scale murals/art installations.
  • Strong artistic vision and design skills.
  • Able to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Who we are:

The Bethlehem Food Co-Op is bringing a full-service, community-owned grocery store to 250 E. Broad St. It will be open to all shoppers. The co-op is a diverse community encouraging physical, social, and economic health by providing healthful, affordable food; emphasizing local, sustainable, humane, and natural food systems; and offering unique educational opportunities to the entire community.

The co-op Art Committee’s seven members reflect the organization’s belief that art can transform spaces and inspire people. The new artwork will help create a vibrant and inclusive space.

Schedule:

  • Oct. 13 – Nov. 13: Artist Call Window
  • Nov. 13 – Dec. 4: Review Candidate Applications
  • Dec. 4 – Dec. 18:  Interview Top Candidates
  • Dec. 18: Art Committee Seeks Board Approval
  • Jan. 1: Lead Artist Announced
  • Jan. 1– Feb. 19: Lead Artist develops concept and works with Art Committee to determine production and installation schedule, production team, and critical milestones.
  • Feb. 19 – Mar. 28: Production window
  • Art Installed: Early-April 2024

Selection Criteria:

  • First consideration will be given to member-owners of the co-op, but all are encouraged to apply! Final selection will be made by the Art Committee and presented to the board of directors for approval.
    • While member-owners will receive careful consideration, we reserve the right to select a lead artist based on their work, and work ethic, and this will include artists who are not member-owners.  We encourage member-owners who are not selected to stay in touch for other opportunities or to be a part of the production team.
  • Demonstrated ability to complete the work within the anticipated schedule and budget.
  • Demonstrated passion for local, healthy food, community, equity, and representation.

To apply please submit the following to art@bethlehemfood.coop:

  • A portfolio of your mural/art installation work
  • A resume or CV
  • A cover letter describing your interest in the project, your design ideas, and why you are the best candidate for the job.

The deadline for applications is Monday, Nov. 13. The committee is currently reviewing applications and will be updating this page with more information in the new year. 

The project budget, not to exceed $10,000, includes artist compensation, all materials, and other costs associated with the creation of the work. The Bethlehem Food Co-Op will complete installation and cover additional costs for installation. We anticipate compensation for the lead artist to be between $25 to $30/SF. The selected candidate will be asked to provide a more detailed quote for their time and materials, including compensation (if deemed appropriate) to the larger production team.

For a printable PDF version of this announcement, click here.

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