Organizer Information
The Massachusetts Design Art & Technology Institute (DATMA), in partnership with the City of New Bedford and the New Bedford Economic Development Agency (NBEDC), is commissioning a landmark public art project. DATMA is a non-profit dedicated to producing impactful public art and educational outreach that connects design, art, and technology.
Title & Description
MBTA Pedestrian Bridge Sculpture Project.
This commission seeks the design and production of original sculptural artworks to be installed in two concrete raised beds (plinths) at the Purchase Street entrance of the MBTA Pedestrian Bridge in New Bedford. The project aims to enhance pedestrian wayfinding, placemaking, and neighborhood identity near the rail link connecting New Bedford to Boston.
Thematic Focus:
Artworks must reflect New Bedford’s coastal mood, traits, and/or characteristics. The installation site is adjacent to Clasky Common park and features existing glass-panel art titled "Equinox" by Tracy Silva Barbosa.
Categories
Sculpture, Public Art.
Eligibility
- Experience: Open to visual artists in any medium with a proven track record of executing public realm projects from concept to installation.
- Skills: Must be capable of working with public agencies and meeting strict budgetary and chronological constraints.
Compensation & Budget
- Total Budget: $30,000 (inclusive of all costs).
- Coverage: This fixed fee must cover all labor, materials, manufacturing, high-tech components, transportation, housing, meals, and artist fees. No additional funding is available.
Fees
- Application Fee: None mentioned.
Application Requirements
Submissions must be sent as a single PDF (max 10MB) and include:
- Preliminary Proposal: Concept statement (max 3 pages) covering artistic intent, thematic alignment, and fabrication methods.
- Visual Documentation: Up to 5 images of previous relevant work and preliminary sketches/renderings for the proposed project.
- Artist Info: CV/Bio and contact details for all contributors.
- Logistics: A preliminary budget breakdown and a high-level timeline.
How to Apply?
Proposals must be emailed to the DATMA Selection Committee at info@datma.org with the subject line: “Call for Art: MBTA Sculpture”.
Key Dates
- Submission Deadline: Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.
- Notification Date: By June 17, 2026.
- Project Completion/Installation: September 16, 2026.
Location
United States, New Bedford, Massachusetts (Purchase Street entrance to the MBTA Pedestrian Bridge).
Additional Details
The concrete raised beds are currently filled with soil for native plantings. Artists will recommend exact anchor points, which must be approved by the Dept. of Public Infrastructure to ensure electric and water safety.