The Illinois Arts Council has partnered with the Capital Development Board’s Art-in-Architecture Program (CDB/AIA) to promote an opportunity for Illinois artists.
CDB/AIA is now accepting Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) from Illinois professional artists to create permanent original public art for the Northeastern Illinois University Education Building in Chicago, Illinois (Project # 817-010-055). The Committee is seeking to commission one artist to create two complementary exterior sculptures for the north and south plazas. The deadline to apply is June 17, 2026.
The new Education Building at Northeastern Illinois University is currently being constructed with a projected completion date of Spring 2027. The artworks should draw inspiration from education and NEIU’s connection with Native American history, notably the Peace Fire Circle. Artists are not limited to a specific medium or style, though lighting must be incorporated into the final design.
About the Illinois Art-In-Architecture Program
The Illinois Art-in-Architecture Program promotes and preserves Illinois art and enriches communities by commissioning original artwork for public buildings constructed with state funds.
The enabling legislation for the program requires that the Capital Development Board “shall set aside 1/2 of 1 percent of the amount authorized and appropriated for construction or reconstruction of each public building financed in whole or in part by state funds and generally accessible to and used by the public for the purchase and placement of suitable works of art in such public buildings.” A committee including art professionals and the project architect oversees each project and selects the artwork.
Since its inception in 1977, the Art-in-Architecture Program has purchased or commissioned works of art by Illinois artists for public display throughout Illinois.
Selection Process
The Fine Arts Review Committee will review the portfolios of eligible applicants. At least three artists/teams will be selected as semi-finalists and paid a fee of $4,500 each to develop and present a site-specific proposal. After the proposal presentations, the Committee will select a winning artist/team for the commission.
Correspondence will be sent to the semi-finalists and to the winning artist/team detailing the proposal process and contracts. The project budget is $375,000
Link to the RFQ Document:
Application materials must be delivered by email to: CDB.ArtinArchitecture@
The Art-in-Architecture Procedure Manual, commission opportunities, and other information are posted at:
https://cdb.illinois.gov/
