Public art collection

GM Building public art competition

With more than 46,000 students and 7,000 staff members, Concordia University in Montreal is one of Canada’s largest and most dynamic universities. The unprecedented expansion of the institution in the last 10 years and its physical impact on two distinct campus neighbourhoods, Loyola and Sir George Williams, has created an opportunity to introduce progressive principles of urban planning and community engagement.

Sir George Williams campus is made up of a pastiche of buildings located within the western downtown precinct. In partnership with the City of Montreal, the university has taken an active role in advancing a planning initiative called Quartier Concordia, one of the priorities of which has been the integration of art within the public sphere.

The latest Quartier Concordia project involves the GM Building, the university’s administration hub located on De Maisonneuve Boulevard and Guy Street. Initially constructed in 1966, it is undergoing major recladding and interior renovation. With a prominent exposure to Place Norman Bethune, the building will become one of the most important intersections of the area.

Concordia is inviting artists to propose their candidacy for a competition to create a work of art that will be integrated into the GM Building’s re-designed lobby.

Shortlisted candidates

Following the review of all submissions, the selection committee will invite three artists to present proposals (onsite or via teleconference) that include detailed technical, maintenance and budget specifications. Each shortlisted artist will receive $3,000 (plus taxes) to prepare their proposals.

About the work of art

The work must be contemporary, bold and embody the energy of a university that prides itself on being an open and engaged institution of higher learning. It must be bi-dimensional and measure to a maximum of 3,60 metres x 6,30 metres x 0,30 metres. It must be constructed in permanent materials that adhere to all municipal building and safety codes. The total budget for design, production and installation is $80,000 plus taxes.