Call to Artists: Request for Proposals (RFP)
Project: 1015 East Hastings Street
Commission: $35,000 + up to $10,000 for supply costs
Proposal Submission Deadline: July 30th, 2025
Project Overview
The Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS) is seeking proposals from local Indigenous artists to design and create an original outdoor mural on the northwest-facing rear wall of our new supportive housing development at 1015 East Hastings Street. This mural will form part of a cohesive art collection that reflects the core values and work of VAFCS, including themes of healing, community, cultural connection, and support. Artists are encouraged to express their own unique styles while aligning with these guiding themes.
Scope of Artwork
The mural will be located on the rear (north- and west-facing) elevations of the building, spanning two adjoining concrete wall surfaces. The north-facing wall measures approximately 15 feet 10 inches wide by 14 feet 4 inches tall, and the west-facing wall measures approximately 124 feet 11 inches wide by 17 feet 5 inches tall. Artists should be prepared to scale their design proposals to fit these large exterior surfaces and consider the visual impact from various distances and sightlines.
The selected artist will be responsible for the full design and execution of the mural, including any preparatory work such as surface priming, outlining, and final painting. VAFCS will provide access to the site and allocate up to $10,000 for supply costs and scaffolding/lift rentals. These funds will be available to the artist through a reimbursement process, subject to prior approval and discussion with VAFCS. All reimbursements must be supported by receipts and/or invoices.
Artists are encouraged to submit a concept sketch and a written description of their vision for the mural, including how it reflects the themes and values of the Friendship Centre. Designs should reflect themes central to the Friendship Centre—such as healing, resilience, community, and the cultural identity of the urban Indigenous population the Centre serves. Proposals must also include examples of past mural work or other relevant projects to demonstrate the artist’s experience, technical skills, and artistic style. The completed mural must be durable and weather-resistant, using high-quality exterior paints and coatings suited for long-term outdoor installation.
We invite proposals that are inclusive, accessible, and rooted in the lived experiences and cultures of Indigenous peoples living in urban Vancouver. The final mural will become a permanent fixture of the site, welcoming visitors and residents while honouring the spirit of the community it serves.
