Tampa International Airport Public Art Commissions
Nearly $6M call for artists to create 8 commissioned installations across airport terminals and facilities.
Tampa International Airport is issuing a Call for Artists for nearly $6 million in public art commissions as part of its ongoing terminal expansion. The Airport will accept submissions for eight commissioned installations across its facilities, with six works located in the new Airside D and two additional installations in expanded security screening checkpoints in Airsides A and E.
The commissions are part of the Airport's Public Art Program, which has grown alongside Tampa's broader infrastructure investment. According to Chief Commercial Officer Chris Minner, "Tampa International Airport is growing its award-winning art collection by seeking the participation of local, state, national and international artists. The new works of art will be original, creative and help us welcome the tens of millions of travelers TPA hosts each year."
The Airport has allocated $5 million for public art in Airside D as part of Phase 3 of its Master Plan, with a separate $820,000 budgeted for artwork in the security checkpoints. These amounts include artist design fees, materials, fabrication, travel, installation, and subcontracted costs.
Artists or teams working in any visual medium may apply, including freestanding sculpture, wall-mounted or ceiling-hung works, technology-based installations, and artwork with functional elements. Applicants must have experience completing public art projects and must confirm they have completed a commission or sold artwork valued at $15,000 or more.
The selection process occurs in two phases. First, a Technical Evaluation Committee reviews submissions and develops a shortlist of qualified artists. In the second phase, the Airport Public Art Committee invites shortlisted artists to submit proposals. Each invited artist or team receives a $4,000 stipend to develop three-dimensional views, models, or other materials communicating design intent. One finalist will be selected for each location and presented to the board for final approval and contract award.