Garland, TX — The City of Garland and the Garland Cultural Arts Commission, Inc. are seeking qualified Texas-based artists or art teams for an opportunity to create a mosaic commemorating Garland’s original free-standing Black community, known as The Flats. This mosaic will serve as a vital educational tool, installed alongside historical markers to honor the contributions of this community to Garland’s development and to recognize the families and businesses that thrived there. The commission budget is set at $35,000, which will cover all expenses from concept design to installation. Artists are invited to propose a mosaic that incorporates a minimum of three panels, each measuring 36” by 144”, to be installed on the western exterior wall of The Atrium at 300 N. Fifth Street.
About The Flats
The Flats was Garland’s original free-standing community for African Americans, located northeast of the downtown square. It featured the Colored School (1936-1948), a regional education center, a Methodist Church (1939-1964), and various businesses, including cafes and barbershops, fostering a close-knit residential community. Historical maps indicate that The Flats was developed in the early 20th century, with the last residences remaining until the 1960s.
Currently, a collaborative team of local stakeholders and nonprofits is researching The Flats, compiling oral histories and primary sources to create a more complete historical narrative.
Mosaic Artwork Description
The mosaic will accompany a Texas Historical Commission State Marker and four City-created interpretive historic panels that provide insights into education, business, worship, and daily life in The Flats. Visual resources for The Flats are limited, so the selected artist or art team will play a crucial role in developing an artistic approach for the mosaic.
The initial concept envisions a triptych design that reflects the essence of The Flats, with installation planned at the site of the original Colored School. Community involvement in both the design and creation of the artwork is a key component of this project.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
This opportunity is open to Texas-based professional artists and artist teams. Applications will be evaluated by a committee of community stakeholders, City staff, and representatives from the Garland Cultural Arts Commission, Inc., based on the following criteria:
- Artistic Excellence: Demonstrated skill and quality of craftsmanship in past work; strength and originality of the concept in the Letter of Interest.
- Artistic Experience: Proven ability to complete large-scale public art projects, particularly in mosaic crafting.
- Community Impact: Potential to engage the community through the design and construction process, including involving local artists or creatives.
Budget and Schedule
The total commission of $35,000 includes all expenses, such as artist and design fees, fabrication, materials, and insurance. The City of Garland will assist the selected artist or art team with the installation of the mosaic panels. To apply for this opportunity, visit the City of Garland’s website.
Important Dates:
- RFQ Opens: April 15
- Deadline: April 30 at 11:59 p.m. (Extended to May 2, Noon)
- Committee Review: May 3 – 5
- Artist Announcement: May 9
- Project Begins: Fall 2025
- Project Completion: Summer 2026
Contact Information
For questions regarding this Request for Qualifications (RFQ), please contact Amy Rosenthal at [email protected] or call 972-205-2789. This is a unique chance to contribute to Garland’s cultural heritage and celebrate the legacy of The Flats through public art.
One Comment
This Flats project was started by Maguc 11th Steet created by Louis and Kay Moore! Magic 11th Street applied for the marker after sponsoring the Musical “The Flats”.