Fishers looking to feature art along Nickel Plate Trail at new Techway Trailhead

LarryInFishers.com
         Where the art is to be placed, near Lantern Road and Technology Drive

The Fishers Arts & Culture Commission is stepping up its impact on art in development around Fishers, with the newest proposal for the Nickel Plate Trail, east of Lantern Road.  The commission is partnering with a local firm, Rebar Development, in a request for qualifications (RFQ), seeking an artist, artist team, or creative company to design and install an art sculpture.

The new trailhead plaza is part of Rebar’s $8.8 million Techway project announced earlier this year. The project includes a public plaza, parking, and a two-story office building at the entrance of Fishers Technology Park. Along with public art, the trailhead plaza will include bicycle racks, benches, a water fountain, and parking for trail users.

“The Fishers Arts and Culture Commission is excited to partner with Rebar Development on our third project along the Nickel Plate Trail,” said David Decker, chair of the Fishers Arts & Culture Commission, in a city news release. “In conjunction with the Blazing the Trail mural and the sculpture at Hamilton East Public Library’s new entrance plaza, we are continuing to invest in the vibrancy of our community. Art and cultural experiences are vital components of our vibrant and inclusive community.”

Artists are encouraged to maximize the use of color, texture, and lighting in their proposed work, which should not exceed a $50,000 budget. The trailhead sculpture is also required to use the daVinci Pursuit’s innovative Art Port. The installation must be durable and projected to withstand weather conditions for up to ten years with the ability to be part of a state-wide art sculpture exchange program through the daVinci Pursuit’s Art Port program.

For more on the RFQ, use this link.

“We are excited to work with the Commission on this unique public-private partnership along the Nickel Plate Trail,” said Shelby Bowen, president and partner of Rebar Development. “We were attracted to invest in this project because of the City’s investment along the trail and are thrilled to collaborate with the Commission to install an original piece of art for our tenants and the public to enjoy.”

Qualifications will be evaluated by the Fishers Arts & Culture Commission’s Grant and RFQ Review Subcommittee, comprised of local non-profit art organizations, Commissioners, and City staff.