Hanover Garage Percent for Art Commission

The City of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, issued Request for Proposal 02-27-RFP on August 26, 2026, seeking an experienced artist or team to create an original work of art for the rehabilitated Hanover garage. The primary objective is to enhance the public image of the utilitarian parking structure through site-responsive art. While the city is open to various media, including outdoor sculpture and projection or lighting effects, there is a strong public preference for murals. The project has a maximum budget of 60,000 dollars, which must cover all costs including design fees, fabrication, transportation, installation insurance, and subcontracting. Proposals are due by October 9, 2026, and must include a resume, a concept statement not exceeding three pages, preliminary renderings, an itemized budget, a project timeline, and a portfolio of up to five recent works with references. The Public Art Review Committee will evaluate submissions based on site appropriateness, aesthetics, project feasibility, and artist experience, with final approval granted by the Portsmouth City Council. Once awarded, the contract is typically paid in three installments tied to project milestones. The selected contractor must adhere to New Hampshire law, maintain required insurance and bonds, implement a strict nondiscrimination policy, and obtain any necessary Historic District Commission approvals for exterior work.