Fort Myers calling artists for public art program

The City of Fort Myers, through its Public Art Committee, announced two Calls to Artists for works of public art.

The first is a National Call to Artists for a sculpture in Centennial Park along the Caloosahatchee River. This project has a budget of $100,000. The second is a Call to Florida Artists for a "Marks and Brands" project along First Street to commemorate the history of the cattle industry in Fort Myers. The budget for this work is $20,000.

To view the Calls to Artists, go to www. cityftmyers.com/calltoartists. Artists are encouraged to apply electronically using the free CaFE website: www.callforentry. org although hard copy submissions will also be accepted.

Artists must meet at least two of the following criteria in order to have their submissions considered:

Completed other public commissions on a similar scale.

Received awards, grants or fellowships

Works included in major private, corporate or museum collections.

At least one solo exhibition at an American Association of Museum's accredited institution within the past five years.

The deadline for both Calls to Artists is Friday, Aug. 1.

The purpose of the City's Public Art Committee is to enhance the City's cultural identity, encourage collaborative public/private partnerships, promote tourism, fuel economic growth, provide a supportive environment for its artists and improve the quality of life for all its citizens and visitors.