RFP/Q's Signature Public Art Commission for the Aplin Center at Texas A&M University
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: October 31, 2026 – Texas A&M University seeks an exceptional professional artist or artist-led team to create a monumental, site-specific public artwork for the Aplin Center, a landmark hospitality and experiential learning facility opening in spring 2028.
This high-profile commission offers the opportunity to create an iconic cultural landmark at one of the nation’s largest public universities. The selected artwork will anchor a new front door to campus and serve as a powerful symbol of welcome, community and the Aggie spirit.
Phase One will be an open call for applicants to submit their qualifications to be considered. Finalists advancing to Phase Two will be provided with more information and instructions.
Eligibility
Open to professional artists and artist-led teams with demonstrated experience in large-scale public art commissions. Applicants must demonstrate:
- Artistic excellence
- Experience with complex public art projects
- Technical expertise in materials and fabrication
- Ability to collaborate with institutional clients and project teams
Site Location
The commission site is a highly visible corner at John Kimbrough Boulevard and Olsen Boulevard, adjacent to Reed Arena (site of university commencement ceremonies) and directly across from Kyle Field and the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center.
The artwork will be experienced by:
- Prospective students and families
- Current students
- Graduates during commencement
- Alumni and visitors
- The broader Bryan–College Station community
The Aplin Center is a 211,724-square-foot, three-story facility—one of the largest mass timber university buildings in the U.S.—housing a campus Welcome Center, event venues, hospitality and food science labs, and student-operated retail and dining spaces.
Budget & Scope
Applicants selected to advance to Phase Two will be responsible for:
- Site-specific design development
- Detailed drawings, renderings, and technical documentation
- Budget and timeline development
- Fabrication and installation oversight
- Coordination with architects, engineers, and university stakeholders
- Maintenance documentation and public presentations
- Finalists advancing to Phase Two will receive a design stipend (amount provided upon invitation).
Submission Requirements (RFQ – Phase 1)
Submit a single PDF (max 25 MB) including:
- Letter of Interest (max 2 pages)
- Resume/CV
- Portfolio: 10–15 completed works
- Documentation of 3–5 Public Art Projects (include budgets, site context, and client contacts)
- Three Professional References
- Team Information (if applicable)
File Name: LastName_FirstName_AplinCenter_RFQ.pdf
Submit to: campusart@tamu.edu
Subject Line: Aplin Center RFQ Submission
* please let us know that you saw this RFP on ‘ArtDeadline.Com’
Questions
Submit questions in writing to: campusart@tamu.edu
Subject Line: Aplin Center RFQ Question
About Texas A&M
Founded in 1876, Texas A&M University enrolls more than 74,000 students and is a flagship public research institution known for its strong traditions, including the “Howdy” greeting and the 12th Man spirit. The Aplin Center will serve as a gateway to campus and a defining symbol of hospitality and community.
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