Fire Station No. 2 Public Art Project

The District of Saanich is undertaking the redevelopment of 
Fire Station #2 in the vibrant Royal Oak neighbourhood.
This major capital project replaces the existing building on an enlarged site, expanding the size and capacity of the station
within a new landmark public safety facility. It is expected to be completed in 2026.

A key component of the project is the commission and integration of public artwork for the site.

CALL TO ARTISTS: REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST AND QUALIFICATIONS

Submission Deadline: 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2024.

The District of Saanich invites applications from artists (and artist teams) to create permanent outdoor public artwork for Fire Station No. 2. The opportunity is open to professional British Columbia artists who are either: residents of British Columbia or from British Columbia, with ongoing connections to the province. First Nations and Indigenous artists, as well as artists who identify with equity-deserving groups, are encouraged to apply. Full details of the opportunity are found in the Call to Artists: Request for Expressions of Interest and Qualifications. [PDF - 1 MB]

Selection Process

The artwork will be selected through a two-stage public jury process outlined in Saanich’s Comprehensive Arts Policy’s Civic Public Art Program. This ensures a fair process and that the artwork selected meets established criteria and standards. The jury includes:

  • Three local artists.
  • Local neighbourhood association representative.
  • Project team representative.
  • Department staff member.

There are two stages in the selection process:

  • Stage 1: Request for Expressions of Interest and Qualifications (current stage)
  • Stage 2: Request for Proposals (shortlisted artists only)

Stage 1: Artists or artist teams are invited to submit an application expressing their interest in the project and outlining their professional qualifications and experience. No more than five (5) artists/artist teams will be shortlisted and invited to develop proposals for a Stage 2 review.

Stage 2: Shortlisted artists will be invited to submit concept proposals and present them to the Jury. A Terms of Reference document will be provided to assist with the preparation of proposals. Shortlisted artists will receive compensation for their completed Stage 2 submissions. The Jury will review proposals and recommend to the District of Saanich an artist/artist team for the commission.

How to Apply:

  • Review the Call to Artists: Request for Expressions of Interest and Qualifications which provides information on the project, process, and how to prepare your application.
  • Submit your application and required supporting materials using the online application form through this link: Fire Station No. 2 Public Art Project Application Form.
  • SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2024.

Artists with accessibility needs who require assistance with submitting their application or accommodation through the process are invited to contact staff.

Estimated Timeline

(See Call to Artists for more information; dates subject to change by the District of Saanich)

August 7, 2024

Online Information Session:
Register here

August 28, 2024 4:00 p.m. PST

Stage 1 Submission Deadline

By September 15, 2024

Shortlisted Artists Contacted

November 5, 2024 4:00 p.m. PST

Stage 2 Submission Deadline

November 5-30, 2024

Review of Proposals, Artist Presentations to Jury
(dates to be confirmed)

By November 30, 2024

Artist Selected; Shortlisted Artists Notified

January–December, 2025

Final Design and Review, Fabrication and Construction

January–May, 2026

Artwork Installation (timeline to be confirmed)

May–July, 2026

Artwork Unveiling at Fire Station
No. 2 Official Opening (TBA)