Site work for a playground / park / athletic field in Desoto, Texas. Completed plans call for site work for a playground / park / athletic field.

The City of DeSoto is seeking to commission an artist or team of artists to design and produce a poignant and enduring sculptural piece that celebrates the valor and sacrifice of all branches of the military, while embodying the theme of "So Much To Love," reflecting the rich heritage and vibrant community spirit of DeSoto. The artwork will be installed within Veterans Memorial Park at Nance Farm. The sculptural piece can be installed as a stand-alone piece or be attached to the bottom of the present monument. This public art project is conceived as a tribute to commemorate all branches of the military. Questions or comments regarding this RFQ must be received in writing by the Purchasing Department no later than 5:00 PM on Friday, March 28, 2025 The City reserves the right to accept or reject all or any part of any RFQ, or waive minor technicalities. In January 2021, the City ofDeSoto adopted its first Cultural Plan. One ofthe key strategies detailed in the Plan is to establish a process for implementing an Art in Public Places program. This idea recognizes the importance of providing residents and visitors access to quality artistic experiences in the public sphere. Future artworks could function to bring attention to prevailing social issues, elevate public interest and create a sense of pride for the city. In the end we are looking to commission a sculptural piece that pays tribute to the bravery and service ofthe Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. An example ofthe form of agreement that will be required by the City is included as Attachment L hereto. Interested artists are encouraged to approach this project with the public in mind and to consider thinking deeply about all aspects of the subject and sense of place. Short-listed artists should consider how community engagement can be included as a pivotal aspect of what is represented in the final insolation. The overall style should be relatable andcould incorporate aspects ofrealism, futurism and abstraction. Beyond its military legacy, DeSoto is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit. The City's roots date back to the early 19th century, when settlers began to establish homesteads in the fertile lands of North Texas. The proposed sculptural piece to be located at Veterans Memorial Park at Nance Farm presents an opportunity to weave together the themes ofmilitary service and community pride with the unique cultural heritage ofDeSoto. Considering the theme: Embracing Unity: A Sculptural Tribute to Military Service andDeSoto's Rich Heritage and Community Pride, selected artists should have the capacity to create an interpretive experience through a series of visual elements that can include but are not limited to representational imagery. Additionally, the installation could combine sculptural and didactic elements using 2D and 3D written and pictorial aspects that result in a serene and contemplative walking experience. To expand engagement, the work could incorporate digital interactions such as virtual and augmented reality accessed through portable smart devices