Artist or Artist Team Experience:

Successful submissions will likely be from artists mid-career and above. The artist, or artist team, would have developed a consistent body of work and defining style, and has gained local, regional or national recognition. Artists may have a range of professional achievements (e.g., solo and group exhibitions, honors/awards, grants, etc.). While not strictly tied to years of experience, mid-career artists typically have 5–9 years of experience.

Locality

Artists or artist teams can be based anywhere in the world.

Artwork Objectives:

DFW Airport seeks to commission a freestanding landmark artwork for the central atrium of Terminal F, serving as both a defining emblem of the airport and a focal point for travelers. Positioned within the main concessions area, the artwork will be set against a panoramic, west-facing window with a waved glass treatment, framing striking views of the tarmac and sunset.

The goals of the artwork include:

• Create a “wow-worthy” and photogenic artwork that captivates and engages travelers.
• Establish a defining icon, and landmark for Terminal F that embodies the identity and spirit of DFW Airport.
• Incorporate innovative and immersive design elements that push artistic boundaries and engage travelers in a meaningful way.
• Design the artwork to complement the surrounding architecture, waved glass, and panoramic tarmac views.
• Provide a moment of delight and respite for travelers, reducing stress and fostering a sense of wonder while they wait for their flights and enjoy the concessions.
• Serve as a visual anchor within the terminal, aiding wayfinding and reinforcing a strong sense of place.

Art Location Rendering:

The following image shows the location of the artwork. Site conditions and image are subject to change based on final architectural designs and operational needs. View of Terminal F atrium and concessions area. The art opportunity location is highlighted in orange; this outline is conceptual, representing an approximate footprint that will be refined during the design process.

Aerial View of Terminal F atrium with the artwork positioned in front of the ‘waved’ window treatment facing the tarmac. The art opportunity location is highlighted in orange; this outline is conceptual, representing an approximate footprint that will be refined during the design process.

Preliminary Considerations:

• Artwork Area: Irregular triangular shape of approximate 20' X 18' X 14', 12’ depth, and up to 25'H (estimated space to work within)
• Artwork Load: 2000 lbs point load anywhere on CL, Live Load 125 PSF (minimum 3 point load)
• Artwork Type: Freestanding sculpture anchored to the floor.
• Design Considerations: Detailed design considerations will be provided to shortlisted artists in Stage Two: Artwork Concept Proposal. Key Considerations include:
  • Avoid design elements that encourage unwanted interactions (e.g., climbing, bumping into, or other safety concerns).
  • Anticipate impact from glare of windows, sunlight, and reflection from materials.
  • Consider potential future terminal intentions, including a lounge on the level above the atrium, which will have an aerial view of the artwork.
  • Artwork must be durable in the high-traffic environment.
  • Materials must be resilient against dust accumulation and easy to clean and maintain.
  • Artwork must be durable for up to 25 years.
  • Artwork must not compromise the security of the airport.

Recommended Qualifications:

The following are the minimum requirements that applicants must meet in order to be considered for the public art opportunity.

• Experience: Artists will most likely be considered mid-career and above. Meaning, the artist, or artist team, must have developed a consistent body of work and defining style, and has gained recognition. Artists may have a range of professional achievements (e.g., solo and group exhibitions, honors/awards, grants, etc.). While not strictly tied to years of experience, mid-career artists typically have 5–9 years of experience.
• Number of similar past projects: The artist or artist team should have at least one similar project in terms of budget, scale, complexity, and/or application.
• Experience with large-scale sculptures: The artist or artist team should have proven experience working with sculptural or 3D artworks.
• Experience in public art: While experience in public art is not required, preference will be given to artists or artist teams with experience working within the technical and logistical constraints of public artworks.
• Artistic Recognition: The artist or artist team must have recognition within the arts community (either locally, nationally, or internationally). This can include being a recipient of awards, grants, or have participated in solo or group exhibitions.

Artwork Budget: $1,150,000 - $1,350,000

The budget is inclusive of artist fees, fabrication, 1 year maintenance, and installation. Additional allocation, managed by DFW in coordination with the selected artist/artist team, will review additional costs on a case by case basis including site preparation (if needed), and/or additional engineering validation or site specific requirements (install equipment/etc). Successful artists will be required to have a minimum of $1 million USD in general liability insurance coverage during the design development, fabrication, and installation phases.

Applicants selected to develop a concept proposal will be required to submit a detailed breakdown of the artwork budget, along with details on anticipated fabrication and production needs, approach, and potential suppliers or subcontractors.

Artwork Themes:

The following artistic themes are intended to inspire artists and provide initial direction, fostering a cohesive thematic unity across DFW Airport artworks.

• Connected Journeys: This theme emphasizes the concept of connectivity, both within the unique cultural blend of Dallas and Fort Worth and the airport's role as a gateway to the world. Artworks may highlight the connection between these two distinct cities, their global reach, and the rich aviation history that ties them together. Symbolizing DFW Airport as a nexus of travel and cultural exchange, artists are encouraged to explore ideas of movement, connection, and openness to diverse cultures, while also reflecting on the legacy of aviation that has made DFW Airport a critical hub for international and domestic journeys.
• Legacy & Innovation: North Texas boasts a rich heritage rooted in beloved Western traditions, yet the same entrepreneurial spirit that fueled the oil and transportation industries now leads to a growing hub of innovation, earning the nickname "Silicon Prairie." Artworks can reflect this dynamic duality by celebrating the region's historical roots while embracing its forward-looking spirit. Pieces may highlight DFW's evolution as the fourth-largest metro area in the country, showcasing its blend of tradition and technological advancement.
• Cultural Tapestry: Reflecting the diverse communities of the Dallas Fort Worth region, this theme highlights the rich and dynamic mosaic of cultures, histories, and identities in North Texas. Artworks may celebrate the region’s multiculturalism, showcasing the significant contributions and traditions of African American, Hispanic, Asian, Indigenous, and other communities. They can also honor the area’s evolving history and heritage, from Indigenous roots to the present day. These pieces can foster unity and mutual respect, illustrating the inclusive and vibrant cultural landscape that defines DFW.
• Landscape Tales: This theme invites artists to explore and depict the unique geographical and natural allure of North Texas. Artworks can convey a deep sense of place, connecting travelers to the diverse landscapes that shape the region. From the sweeping prairies and the Trinity River to the distinctive climate, flora, and fauna, these artworks may celebrate the natural beauty and environmental richness that characterize DFW.

While these themes provide a framework, other themes can be explored as long as they align with the overarching vision and reflect the cultural, historical, social/political, and environmental identities of the Dallas Fort Worth region and the airport’s identity.

Selection Process: Three-Stage Artist Call

Stage One: Expression of Interest & Qualifications

Submit the following materials through this form. All items must be received for the application to be considered.

• Artistic Statement and Biography (Combined 500-word limit)
• Professional Resume or CV (2-page limit per team member) – Include current professional experience, past public art experience, and other information relevant to the call. Each CV must include the artist's name, address, email, webpage, and phone number on the first page.
• Portfolio – Include up to 6 past projects. For each project, include the title, medium, dimensions, project budget, year completed, location, up to three images/photographs, and a short description. Values must be provided in USD.
• Letter of Interest (500-word limit) – Describe the artist or team’s interest in this opportunity, relevant experience, plan to meet the project’s goals, and preliminary approach.
• References – Provide the name, email address, and phone number of two professional or educational references.

Stage Two: Artwork Concept Proposals

The Airport Art Advisory Committee, consisting of eight art experts from Dallas and Fort Worth, will review applications and make recommendations to DFW Airport of up to five (5) applicants per opportunity to develop an artwork concept proposal between August and September 2025. In October, shortlisted applicants, upon entering into an agreement with DFW Airport to prepare a Preliminary Concept, will receive a detailed design brief and participate in briefing meetings to guide the development of their Artwork Concept Proposals, which will include the following elements:

• Preliminary Concept – A description of the artist/team’s preliminary approach and ideas for the project, including artwork statement, color palette, material and equipment specifications, fabrication process, maintenance and durability considerations, and a financial estimate (template to be provided). Concept development must align with the technical requirements outlined in the design brief provided to shortlisted artists. Note: During concept development, concepts may be vetted by technical team members, including engineers and architects, to ensure compatibility with the surrounding environment and structure.
• Drawings and renders –
  • One to three 3D renders of artwork in-situ with color, texture, and finish
  • Three computer generated 2D drawings (plan, elevation, section) clearly defining its dimensions, form, volume, structure, materials, and colors.
• Workback Schedule: Define the timeline and a workback schedule needed to deliver your artwork. Also define equipment and staff needed during all phases.
• Budget Breakdown: A detailed budget breakdown. An optional template with be provided.

Note: Additional tasks may include virtual presentations to decision makers.

Shortlisted artists or artist teams who submit a complete concept package containing the above information will be provided with a fee of $3,500 USD.

Stage Three: Artist Selection for Final Design and Commissioning

After review of the shortlisted applicant’s submission of Concept Proposals, one Concept Proposal will be awarded for final design and commissioning of the proposed artwork.

Key Dates:

A detailed schedule will be provided to successful candidates. The following dates are subject to change.

• May 16, 2025 – June 13, 2025: Stage 1: Expression of Interest & Qualifications application acceptance period
• July 2025 – September 2025: Stage 2: Artist shortlisting and preliminary concept development
• October 2025 – November 2025: Stage 3: Winning Artist selection and contracting
• November 2025 – September 2026: Design development (Schematic, Detailed, and Final Design & approvals)
• August 2026 – March 2027: Fabrication
• Q2 2027: Estimated installation

Terms and Conditions:

The artists retain attribution (named author of the work) and integrity rights that they have or may have in the artworks created for the Project. The artist understands that the artwork will be part of the Client’s collection and will be associated with its activities. The artist therefore does not consider the following acts to constitute a violation of the artist’s moral rights:

• Allowing the client to change the presentation and placement of the artwork over time or choose not to exhibit the artwork;
• Engaging in maintenance and the conservation or restoration of the artwork;
• Lending the artwork;
• Selling or donating the artwork;
• Deaccessioning or removal or disposal of the artwork from the collection;
• The artist will also grant the client an irrevocable right to make video recordings and/or take photographs of the artwork for the purposes of creating marketing and promotional material or small scale reproduction.

*Client will not distort or modify the design intent of the artwork unless required for maintenance, safety, or functionality within the Airport.

Applicant Support:

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport is committed to equity and equal opportunity in all aspects of its work and actively welcomes proposals from all interested parties. For any assistance with the application process, please email DFWart@MASSIVart.com