Biddeford is an old mill city of 22,000, and is one of the few remaining ungentrified communities on the southern Maine coast. Although the textile industry has all but left, the historic mill structures remain, with many finally beginning to see renovation and reinvestment.

The Heart of Biddeford (HoB), formed in 2004, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Biddeford, Maine, devoted to revitalizing downtown Biddeford. In partnership with the City of Biddeford, the business community, property owners, and residents, fosters economic development and improves the downtown and quality of life within its boundaries by supporting existing businesses, attracting new businesses, promoting the downtown through events and working to beautify the urban core.

The HoB is currently seeking a one-time competitive grant of between $1,000 and $20,000 to be used for a project that promotes the quality of public spaces through the creation of artwork that is sculptural in nature. With that grant, the HoB is seeking artists to create public sculpture in the city of Biddeford, Maine. Reflecting the history of the city, the sculpture would utilize and incorporate mill machinery, recycled, or found materials in the sculpture. The artist should be prepared to define how the project is intended to relate to the public and the environment. The artist should also show an understanding of the City of Biddeford and explain how their concept piece would honor the history and the current revitalization of the city. This project would be a visible presentation in an area to be determined.

Interested people should submit the following, no later than April 30, 2009, to Rachael Weyand, Executive Director, Heart of Biddeford, 205 Main Street, Biddeford, Maine 04005.

1. Current concise resume

2. Up to five digital images of work by the artist(s) or designers(s) involved with the project

3. A completed narrative form describing what you plan to do and how you plan to do it.

4. A budget breakdown considering all aspects of design, fabrication, transportation, collaboration, promotion, and installation.

Interviews with finalists will be conducted during the month of May, and selection by May 30, 2009.