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Art Solicitations
Art is at the heart of RNO, where local and global artists collaborate to enhance the airport experience. The Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority’s (RTAA) public art program, Arts at the Airport, dedicates 1% of funds from capital improvement projects at Reno-Tahoe International (RNO) and Reno-Stead (RTS) airports to commissioning works that reflect the region’s unique culture. Launched in 2021, this initiative invites artists to contribute to creating a vibrant, inspiring environment for travelers from all over the world.
What You Need to Know
The Arts at the Airport program is supported by the MoreRNO Infrastructure Program, the largest modernization effort in RNO’s history, which provides most of the funding for public art. As the airport expands, there will be many opportunities to integrate public art into new spaces and construction, with new solicitations opportunities opening in early 2025.
The first public art commission funded by the program, Repeated Refrains by Dixie Friend Gay, is showcased in the newly expanded Ticketing Hall.
Types of Desired Artwork
We’re seeking a variety of site-specific art for each solicitation related to upcoming MoreRNO projects. Art requirements will be included in each call for artists. Please see the below on this page on how to apply.
How to Prepare for the Solicitations Process
The first step is to register on the Nevada Government eMarketplace (NGEM) and select “Art & Craft & Writing” commodity section to receive future notifications.
Learn more about how to register with NGEM and download a PDF about the application process here.
Differences Between RFQ and RFP Processes
Through the solicitation process, the RTAA issues both RFQs and RFPs. An RFQ, or Request for Qualifications, invites artists to submit information about their experience and previous work to demonstrate their qualifications for a project. In contrast, an RFP, or Request for Proposals, is issued to shortlisted artists, asking them to present specific design concepts for a commission.
Learn more and download a PDF about the Art Selection Process here.
Learning More
Check out the Art Solicitations Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) below or find general information by visiting our Arts at the Airport about page.
We encourage you to contact our Community Relations and Cultural Engagement team if you have further questions by filling out our Arts at the Airport Contact Us form.
More Public Art
MoreRNO is underway, with the expanded Ticketing Hall and reconstructed Loop Road already completed. These projects showcase the RTAA’s dedication to integrating regional art and design, featuring modern mountain motifs and Reno-Tahoe-inspired public art that highlight the region’s unique beauty and character.
Upcoming Public Art Opportunities in MoreRNO Projects
- Loop Road Improvements
- HQ – Police and Airport Authority Headquarters building
- GTC – Ground Transportation Center
- New Gen A&B – New Concourses
RTAA Art Advisory Committee
The RTAA Art Advisory Committee consists of professionals and executives from leading arts organizations across northern Nevada. With expertise in the recruitment, selection, acquisition, installation, and maintenance of permanent artworks, this committee guides and supports the RTAA’s public art program and is instrumental in the evaluation and selection of public artworks at RNO and RTS.
Frequently Asked Questions – Art Solictations FAQs
Do I need to have large-scale public art experience to apply?
Partnerships with multiple artists and/or fabrication studios with varying levels of experience are eligible to enter. We encourage you to form an art team to meet eligibility criteria.
I am a for-profit company not an artist, can I apply?
Professional artists are the main applicants. We recommend that fabricators, designers, and/or corporations partner with an artist to form an art team to meet eligibility criteria and show a diverse portfolio of work.
What are your expectations for art teams to apply?
If your team includes an artist, architect, engineer, and others, submit your application as a team, listing all members. You may need a multi-page PDF to include each member’s resume or CV. Be sure to include any additional information about your team, experience, and process in your letter of interest if necessary.
Can I apply to more than one airport art location?
Yes, prospective artists can apply for multiple airport art locations. However, a separate application through NGEM is required for each location. It’s important to customize your letter of interest for each submission to help the Art Advisory Committee understand your art, team, vision, and process, and how they align with the specific location.
Can I submit existing artwork?
No. The one percent public art initiative is focused on new, site-specific artwork created to complement each airport location. Request for Qualifications (RFQs) require an overall demonstration of your artistic capabilities, while Request for Proposals (RFPs) are specifically tailored to the site. Additionally, RFQs usually include a site-specific component for finalists, ensuring that the proposed work fits well within the designated space.
What is the selection process for the artworks?
The process involves selecting artists based on qualifications and scoring criteria outlined in the RFQ/RFP, with shortlisted semifinalists submitting site-specific proposals. Final selections are reviewed by the Art Advisory Committee and approved by the RTAA Board of Trustees. The RTAA seeks artists with demonstrated artistic excellence, relevant experience, and the ability to create durable, low-maintenance works.
What are weight limitations and size requirements for the art locations?
Structural provisions, project specifications and requirements are included in each solicitation. During the RFP phase, artists/art teams will have the opportunity to ask RTAA architects/build team additional questions about the structural components of the space.
Will the program feature local artists?
Local artists are encouraged to to be notified of calls for art. Each solicitation will have different requirements, please check the solicitation.
Will the program showcase music, dance, audio, video, and other forms of art?
Yes, there are areas designated for a variety of arts offerings. Scheduled arts programming will be coordinated and funded through the airport operating budget, rather than the one percent public art initiative.
Artists can apply for RNO’s rotating art exhibition program in the depARTures Gallery, and performance art at the airport, today.
