Call for Proposal for Window/Stage Display Installation

AVA is looking for proposals for site specific installation works to activate our stage and storefront window during the first three exhibit slots in 2027. Ideal installation proposals would be on display in conjunction with our exhibit calendar for a two month duration. Install would take place during exhibit rotation weeks. Artist should fully consider the opportunities and limitations of the site as well as how visitors inside and outside of the building on the sidewalk can experience the work.

The open space for installation includes an area on the stage directly in front of the two large storefront windows. 

Available area stage measurements: 60” deep, 156” wide and 84” tall. 

Window panels: 68” by 73” 

There are four power outlets available, two on the wall on either side of the window and two floor mounted outlets at both ends. There are two lighting tracks that cross the stage. Installations may not interfere with the lighting.

There are two ceiling mounted hanging racks made of pipe that are centered with each large window. Lightweight items can be hung with wire, fishing line, etc. There are also three sets of cables that hang six feet above the stage on the side closest to the gallery which can be used for textiles, banners or anything that utilizes a dowel for suspension.

Installation proposals do not need to coordinate or match with exhibits in the gallery. This is being conceived of as a separate exhibition opportunity. The stage will not be available for installations during our annual Annual Juried Show, the Solo Show or the Annual Member Salon Show. 
Artists will be responsible for install and take down, as well as all needed components and hardware. Install and take down must take place during exhibit rotation weeks and will be coordinated with the AVA Gallery Director. A short contract will be drafted for each install, just as with exhibits. If a proposal is selected and installed, the artist(s) responsible are required to attend the exhibit opening. 

Art installations and displays may not include any element that permanently alters or damages the stage, window or any AVA property. Any materials applied to the window should be approved by the AVA Curator but can include window chalk, markers, acrylic paint and tape with minimal adhesive. Artists are responsible for removing any remaining residue on the glass. 
The stage is accessible via a false wall door to the right and a short staircase leading up to the platform from the gallery floor. 

Proposals should include the following (one to two pages max):

• Who: Is this installation a solo artist project, group collaboration, lead artist supervising participants, school or student group or partner organization? Who all is involved?

• What:

  • What is the work about? What is the idea or concept driving the process?

  • What is it made out of: What materials and processes would be involved in this installation and how do those materials support the idea or concept behind the work?

  • What considerations does the artist need, such as hardware, electrical or battery elements, fans, lighting etc?

• How:

  • How does the work activate or respond to the site? AVA is housed in the former Agnew Hardware Store in a historic, 100 year old building on Frazier Avenue with particular architectural and aesthetic elements. The stage and storefront window can be experienced from multiple sides with 24/7 engagement from the sidewalk and access internally during AVA’s operating hours.

  • Is the work static or interactive?

• When:

  • Rank the three exhibit time slots in order of preference. This may not be able to be accommodated but will be considered in the scheduling. The Gallery Director will seek to match installations and concurrent exhibit programming.

• Please also include sketches/mock up from both sides (inside the gallery and externally).

*If you would like to come by the gallery to look at the space and ask questions in the development of your proposal, please make an appointment by emailing our Gallery Director at tim@avarts.org.

Finalized proposals due via email by Wednesday September 30th at Midnight.

We are taking proposals for the following three exhibit slots for 2027.

Exhibit 1-

Rotation/Install Week- Saturday, Jan 2rd-Friday, Jan 8th

Opening Night- Friday, January 8th

Exhibit Duration- Friday, January 8th- Friday, February 26th 

Deinstall- Saturday and Sunday, February 27th and 28th

Exhibit 2-

Rotation/Install Week- Saturday, February 28th-Friday, March 5th

Opening Night- Friday, March 5th

Exhibit Duration- Friday, March 5th-April 30th

Deinstall-Saturday and Sunday, May 1st and 2nd

Exhibit 3-

Rotation/Install Week- Saturday, May 1st-Friday, May 7th

Opening Night- Friday, May 7th

Exhibit Duration- Friday, May 7th-June 25th

Deinstall-Saturday and Sunday, June 26th and June 27th