RFP. Those are three letters that I learned about in my career as an arts and community organizer. Not only did I learn what they stood for (Request for Proposal), but I learned their importance. I’m in no means an expert on RFPs, however I know that they can be vital to artists.
An opportunity to bid on a job can create a fair process and make for a level playing field. RFPs can be broadcasted to the community and beyond. Once received, proposals can be reviewed by committees and voted on if applicable.
It might be a more tedious process, but, again, it helps to make things fair. When artists are searching for work, this can make all the difference. Fairness.
Working artists depend on these opportunities. And working with artists can be tremendously beneficial to the community. Artists are usually the first to reinvigorate depressed areas. They bring vibrance and hope with them. When creating posters and redesigning logos, it might be most helpful to our community to think of artists first.
We might not all be required to publish RFPs for work, but we have opportunities to model the idea of welcoming all to apply. Yellow Bird Books at 34 S. Stolp Ave. in downtown Aurora has done a great job of this with their themed First Fridays art shows. They put out a call on social media for local artists each month.
Aurora Public Art recently put out a call for Lumenaura, their new light festival coming in October. A call to artists due April 10 and RFPs are available on the city’s website.
To keep our city vibrant, these opportunities are essential. Let’s all think about how we can work with artists and bring them into the fold.
Here’s a list of upcoming artist opportunities:
June 8 Aurora Greenfest at Prisco Community Center is looking for green-minded artists for their artist area. The environmentally-focused day of community, education, art, and fun will be a kick-off to summer. Visit auroragreenfest.com to apply.
August 31 Alley Art Festival will return for year 14 on the last Saturday of August. The grassroots art festival will be back along Water Street Mall and Downer Place in downtown Aurora. Applications are open to artists through June 15. For more information, visit alleyartaurora.com.