Cape Porcupine Exhibit Mural RFP

Request for Proposal (RFP) for Mural Design for Cape Porcupine Exhibit

Introduction: We are seeking a talented mural artist or design firm to create a custom mural for our Cape Porcupine exhibit, located within the “Forever Forests” building. The mural should reflect the natural environment of the Cape Porcupine, a species commonly found throughout central and southern Africa, while also incorporating tree elements to align with the forest theming of the building. This mural will provide an immersive backdrop for visitors and enhance the overall educational and visual appeal of the exhibit.

This mural is part of a dual project. Awardee of this bid will get first priority for future projects, which will include a mural in an upgraded Mexican Spider Monkey exhibit.

Project Overview:

  • Exhibit Name: Cape Porcupine Exhibit
  • Location: Forever Forests Building at the Utica Zoo
  • Theme: Sub-Saharan Africa landscape, with a focus on trees to tie into the building’s forest theme
  • Approximate Mural Dimensions:
    • Back Wall: 17.5 feet wide, 9 feet high
    • Side Walls: 10 feet wide, 9 feet high (each)
    • Total mural area: approximately 377 square feet
    • Exact measurements will be provided upon awarding the contract.
  • Installation Completion Date: December 31, 2024 (tentative)

Design Requirements:

  • The mural should depict a natural landscape typical of sub-Saharan Africa, including elements like savannas, shrubs, and grasslands, while emphasizing trees to harmonize with the “Forever Forests” theme.
  • The landscape should be designed to reflect the natural habitat of the Cape Porcupine, which includes a mixture of dense forests and open landscapes.
  • The mural should provide a realistic, immersive experience for exhibit visitors, with a balance between detailed close-up and broader landscape views.
  • The mural should be vibrant, educational, and visually engaging, enhancing the Cape Porcupine exhibit and the overall theme of conservation and sustainability in the Forever Forests building.

Submission Requirements:

  • Design Proposal: Artists are asked to submit an initial concept or draft image of the proposed mural. The draft should give a clear sense of the composition, style, and primary elements of the mural.
  • Pay Rate: Please include your proposed pay rate for the project, either as a lump sum or an hourly rate, and an estimated completion time.
  • Portfolio: Provide examples of previous mural work, particularly any projects involving natural landscapes, wildlife, or conservation themes.
  • Experience: Detail any relevant experience working on large-scale murals, public art, or work within themed environments.
  • Timeline: Provide an estimated timeline for design, approval, and installation of the mural, including any necessary revisions.
  • Insurance: Must be able to provide a certificate of liability insurance.
  • References: Provide three references from previous projects.

Evaluation Criteria:

  • Theming: 25%
    • Alignment with the sub-Saharan Africa and forest theming of the exhibit.
  • Creative: 10%
    • Artistic quality and creativity of the design.
  • Experience: 10%
    • Experience with similar projects, particularly nature or wildlife murals.
  • Cost: 25%
    • Pay rate and overall project cost.
  • Timeline: 30%
    • Ability to meet deadlines and collaborate with our team on revisions, if necessary. 

Submission Deadline: All proposals must be submitted no later than 11/15/24. Submissions received after this date may not be considered. 

Submission Process: Proposals should be submitted in digital format (PDF or similar) to Allison Snyder, Allison.snyder@uticazoo.org with the subject line: “Cape Porcupine Mural Proposal.”

Contact Information: For any inquiries or additional information, please contact:

Allison Snyder
315-738-0472 ext. 38
Allison.snyder@uticazoo.org

We look forward to reviewing your proposal and partnering with a talented artist to bring the Cape Porcupine exhibit to life through your mural design!

Photo of Inside Exhibit:

Examples of Landscapes:

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