Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ page was created to help answer common questions about our Public Arts Program, contests, and opportunities.
We encourage you to review the information below, as many questions are addressed here along with links to additional resources.
If you need assistance, we’re here to help.
General Contest Information
Q: What is the public art contest?
A: Each contest is a design opportunity created to allow artists of all skill levels to submit artwork, designs, or concepts for consideration as part of the Public Arts Program.
Q: Do I need to be a professional artist to participate?
A: No.
These contests are open to artists of all levels. Please review the eligibility requirements and submission guidelines to confirm you qualify- Contest Details Link.
Q: Why are there different themes listed?
A: Themes are provided to help guide and inspire submissions. Unless otherwise stated, they are not intended to limit your creativity.
Q: Why are there separate contests for LISD, UISD, TAMIU, LC, and the public?
A: Separate contests help create more opportunities for students to participate and have their work considered within their own category, rather than competing directly with the general public.
Q: Which contest should I apply to?
A: If you are a student at LISD, UISD, TAMIU, or Laredo College, apply through your institution’s contest if available.
Otherwise, you should apply through the public contest.
Q: When is the deadline?
A: Deadlines are listed on the application form. We also share updates on our website and social media, so please check those regularly.
Contest Submissions & Projects
Q: I have questions about a specific contest or project. Where can I find more information?
A: Please refer to the Contest Details Link to find the project templates, submission guidelines, and supporting documents.
These materials include important details about each project, requirements, and eligibility.
Q: Is there a limit to how many projects I can submit to?
A: Submission details are provided on the Submission Guide–Follow the steps to submit your designs.
Q: What is the specific size of each project?
A: Review the template of the project you are interested in: Contest Details Link.
Q: What if I want to submit to multiple projects (e.g., Mini Galleries and Ground Hopscotch Murals)?
A: Submissions are organized by project ID. You may submit to multiple projects, but each must follow its specific requirements on the Submission Guide.
Q: Can I submit original work I created before this contest?
A: Yes, as long as the work is your original creation, has not been previously sold or transferred to another party, and meets all project guidelines and requirements on the Eligibility Requirements & Project Overview.
Q: Can I submit the same design to multiple projects?
A: No. Each submission should be tailored to the specific project and its requirements by viewing the Project Overview.
Q: Can I collaborate with someone on a submission?
A: Yes, collaborations may be permitted.
Please review the submission guidelines for the specific project. If selected, compensation will be issued to one individual, and it is the responsibility of the artist team to coordinate how funds are distributed and to complete all required documentation.
Q: Do I need to paint the murals myself?
A: No.
These contests are for design only. Installation is a separate process.
Q: What happens if I submit incorrect or incomplete materials?
A: Applicants are responsible for reviewing all guidelines and submitting complete and accurate materials.
Submissions that do not meet the stated requirements may be deemed ineligible.
Q: Are there design guidelines I need to follow?
A: Yes.
Please review the Design Guidelines carefully and ensure that your submission meets all requirements and is appropriate and safe for all ages.
Artwork & Content Requirements
Q: Can I use copyrighted images, characters, logos, or references?
A: No. Submissions must be entirely original and cannot include copyrighted, trademarked, or plagiarized material.
Q: What file types or formats are accepted?
A: Please refer to the submission guidelines and online form for accepted file types, sizes, and formatting requirements.
Q: What happens if my image quality is low?
A: Submissions must meet the required quality standards. Low-resolution or unclear images may be considered ineligible.
Selection & Next Steps
Q: Where can I find information about becoming an evaluator?
A: Information regarding evaluator participation, requirements, and expectations is available in the Evaluator Selection Panel Form Link. Please review that section for full details.
Q: Can I be both an applicant and an evaluator?
A: No. Individuals serving as evaluators may not submit to the same round of projects. This helps ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation process.
Q: How are submissions evaluated?
A: Submissions are reviewed through an independent evaluation process based on criteria outlined in the guidelines. You can click here to learn how submissions will be reviewed.
Q: How many winners will be selected?
A: The number of selected submissions varies by project. We encourage participants to submit their strongest and most complete work for consideration.
Q: Can I be selected for multiple projects?
A: Yes.
Selection for multiple projects may be possible depending on the project and your evaluation scores.
Q: Will I receive feedback if I am not selected?
A: Due to the volume of submissions, individual feedback may not be provided.
Q: How will I be notified if I am selected?
A: Notifications will be sent by email. Please check your inbox, junk, and spam folders. Updates may also be shared on social media.
Q: If I am selected, what happens next?
A: You will receive instructions and required paperwork to complete the process, including documentation related to transferring the artwork or design to the City.
Q: What if I don’t check my email or respond?
A: Communication and timely responses are part of participation requirements.
If we are unable to reach you, we may need to move forward with alternate selections to keep project timelines on track.
Deadlines & Submission Policies
Q: Can I edit or resubmit my application after submitting?
A: Edits after submission are not permitted. Please review your materials carefully before submitting.
Q:What happens if I miss the deadline?
A: Late submissions are not accepted.
Q: What time zone are deadlines based on?
A: All deadlines follow the time zone listed in the application (typically Central Time).
Q: What is the specific size of each project?
A: Project sizes and specifications are listed in the project templates Contest Details Link.
It is the responsibility of the artist or artist team to review all provided documents and specifications.
Q: What if I want to submit to multiple projects (e.g., Mini Galleries and Ground Hopscotch Murals)?
A: Submissions are organized by project ID. You may submit to multiple projects, but each must follow its specific requirements on the Submission Guide.
Compensation & Requirements
Q: How do I get compensated?
A: Compensation is processed by check and mailed to the address listed on your W-9.
If the selected participant is a minor, a parent or legal guardian must complete and sign the required paperwork and the check will be issued to the parent or legal guardian.
Q: What is the timeline for compensation?
A: Compensation is processed through a separate City department, and timelines may vary, with a minimum processing time of approximately five weeks.
While this process is handled outside of our division, we actively coordinate and share updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience as payments move through the City’s process.
Q: Are there any costs I am responsible for?
A: Yes.
If selected, participants are responsible for any costs associated with submitting or delivering their artwork, including printing, shipping, or drop-off.
Q: What if I do not want to sign over my artwork to the City?
A: Selected artwork is intended to be procured by the City. If you do not wish for your work to become City property, we recommend not submitting. Please note that withdrawing after selection may impact future eligibility.
RFQ & Installation Process
Q: What is an RFQ?
A: RFQ stands for Request for Qualifications. This is a separate process used for project implementation (such as mural installation or fabrication).
Artists, artist teams, and/or contractors must meet qualification requirements and follow Purchasing Division procedures.
Q: What if I want to participate in installation?
A: Installation opportunities are separate from the design contests and may require participation in an RFQ or similar procurement process.
Q: What if I don’t have the required qualifications?
A: You may still participate by applying as a volunteer. Please refer to the Volunteer Application Link and submit both required forms.
Q: What if I have questions about the RFQ?
A: All RFQ-related questions must be submitted through the Purchasing Division contact listed in the bid. The Arts & Culture Division staff cannot respond to RFQ questions during an active solicitation.
Bidding Process
Q: What is a bid?
A: A bid is a competitive process where the selected qualified artists, teams, or contractors submit pricing proposals for executing selected projects.
Q: How does pricing affect selection?
A: Pricing must align with the project scope and budget. Proposals that significantly exceed available funding may limit eligibility for selection.
Installation & Final Outcomes
Q: Will my design be installed exactly as submitted?
A: Designs may be adjusted as needed to accommodate site conditions, materials, safety requirements, or installation methods.
Q: Where will the artwork be installed?
A: Locations are determined by the program and may vary depending on project needs and approvals.
Q: When will my work go up? When will my work be installed?
A: Installation timelines vary depending on the project scope and coordination requirements. Selected participants will be notified with updates, including unveiling details, as information becomes available.
Q: Will I be credited for my work?
A: Yes, selected artists are typically credited in program materials and/or at the installation site where applicable.
Additional Questions
Q: Does the Public Arts Program offer painting or art classes?
A: No.
The Public Arts Program focuses on developing and managing public art projects on City property, such as murals, sculptures, and installations. For classes or workshops, please refer to programs offered through the Public Library: Event Calendar Link.
Q: What if my question is not listed here?
A: Please feel free to reach out if your question is not addressed above.
We’re happy to assist.
We also encourage you to review the guidelines and supporting documents first, as many common questions are answered there.
Arts & Culture Staff
CONTACT US (select contact the Public Arts Program Manager)
*Kindly allow a minimum of 1–2 business days for a response.*
