Morristown Seeks Artist Proposals for Public Art Initiative

MORRISTOWN, NJ – The vibrant arts scene in Morristown is set to be further enhanced through the latest public art initiative. Local authorities are currently inviting artists from the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area to submit proposals for an innovative art installation. This project is part of the Town's One Percent For Arts initiative, which dedicates one percent of construction costs from redevelopment zones—up to $100,000—to public art.

The chosen location for the new artwork is a central block in downtown Morristown, strategically positioned to attract the gaze of thousands daily. This block presents artists with four potential canvases, including public plazas and building facades, suitable for murals, sculptures, and other art forms.

Installations will be on or around the highlighted areas (A, B, C, D) at the intersections of Market Street, Bank Street, and Ann Street

Mayor Tim Dougherty expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We are excited to see the creative visions that artists will bring to Morristown through the newest One Percent for Art project. This program exemplifies the transformative power of art and its ability to inspire, provoke thought, and bring people together.”

Interested artists can submit their proposals via CAFÉ- Call For Entry. Details and the Request for Proposals are accessible here. Additional information can be found on the websites of Morris Arts, The Town of Morristown, The New Jersey State Council for the Arts, and Americans for the Arts. 

The deadline for submissions is June 21, 2024, with a selection panel comprised of artists and local stakeholders to choose the winning proposal. The selected artist will collaborate closely with Morris Arts and the Town to create a permanent installation, enhancing Morristown's cultural landscape with a budget set at $170,000.

The One Percent For Arts program, initiated in 2015 by Mayor Dougherty in conjunction with Morris Arts, has significantly contributed to the cultural enrichment of Morristown. Previous projects funded through this initiative include the Gateway Totem Project by Gabriele Hitl-Cohen at the Early Street Community Garden and the "Convergent" sculpture by Nathan S. Pierce, located at Speedwell Park.

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