New public art opportunity to add vibrancy to downtown Kingston

The City has launched a call for a new, permanent public artwork located in the heart of downtown Kingston and is seeking Expression of Interest from Kingston and surrounding area-based artists and artist teams. The artwork will be installed on the exterior of the Robert Bruce Memorial Parking Garage on Bagot St., between Brock St. and Princess St.  

The new public artwork will be installed across 10 flat concrete panels on the second level of the garage and will be visible from street level. Once completed, the artwork will become a permanent addition to the City’s Civic Collection.  

“This parking garage is in the centre of a highly visible location next to the public transit transfer point in downtown Kingston,” says Danika Lochhead, Director of Arts and Culture Services with the City of Kingston. “With so much activity, movement and gathering of people along those streets, it’s an ideal location for a public artwork that celebrates the character of the area and creates a sense of connection and community.” 

The selection of the artist and artwork will be made following a two-stage process. A Selection Panel made up of citizens, local artists and arts professionals will shortlist three artists or artist teams to submit a detailed proposal. There will be an opportunity for public engagement and feedback on the shortlisted proposals before an artist and artwork is selected for installation.  

The deadline to submit an Expression of Interest is Friday, March 28, 2025 at 5 p.m. 

A virtual Artist Information Session will be held online on Friday, March 14 at 2 p.m. where an overview of the project will be provided. Advance registration is required by emailing PublicArt@CityofKingston.ca by March 11 at 5 p.m.  

Interested artists can view the project details and online application form for Expressions of Interest at CityofKingston.ca/ArtistOpportunities.