RFQ issued for an interactive visitor experience in lower Bricktown
OKLAHOMA CITY – Visit Oklahoma City (Visit OKC) is delighted to issue a call to creatives of all mediums to produce an iconic and immersive art installation that will attract visitors and locals alike. Oklahoma City draws more than 24 million visitors each year and this extraordinary focal point will greet visitors and the many citizens that call Oklahoma City home.
“Major cities and tourism destinations have must-see places where you go and snap a picture to share your unique experience,” said Zac Craig, president of Visit OKC. “While OKC has invested in vibrant public art across our community, we’re excited to create something special for OKC from a visitor experience.”
The exterior public artwork site is slated for the Bricktown Entertainment District to replace the Centennial Fountain in United Way Plaza. This high-traffic pedestrian area is adjacent to the Bricktown Canal, Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, OKC Streetcar line and Reno Ave.
The site is maintained by the City of OKC’s Parks & Recreation Department and is an opportunity to update the area which has a legacy of being a catalyst for growth and development.
“This area is a gateway for the region’s premier entertainment district, and it is due for a reimagining,” said OKC Mayor David Holt. “Thanks to this project, we have an opportunity to make it memorable and special, and I can’t wait to see where this project leads. My gratitude to everyone making it happen.”
Interested creatives can find the full Request for Qualifications here. Submissions are due at 4 p.m. (Central) on October 2, 2024.
Funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act and Inasmuch Foundation, this installation is intended to enhance the visitor experience and drive tourism business. This project is visionary in how it will capture the energy, excitement and welcoming spirit of Oklahoma City through interactive and exceptional design.
"Inasmuch Foundation is thrilled to partner with Visit OKC to add an iconic art piece in Bricktown,” said Bob Ross, Chairman and CEO of Inasmuch Foundation. “The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding provides unique opportunities for public-private partnerships. Inasmuch Foundation is proud its grant dollars will come alongside the ARPA investment to enhance the quality of life in OKC."
Visit OKC is collaborating with several partners, including the City of OKC’s Office of Culture & Arts, to ensure this project aligns with future public art and placemaking initiatives.
About Visit Oklahoma City
Visit Oklahoma City (Visit OKC) is a division of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce. Visit OKC is the tourism information source for visitors to and the citizens of Oklahoma City, as well as the home to OKC Sports. As the City’s official destination marketing organization, the mission of Visit OKC is to contribute to the economic well-being of Oklahoma City and its citizens through the solicitation and servicing of conventions, sporting events and other related group business, to promote the city as a first-class visitor destination, and to enhance Oklahoma City's name and image.