Et cetera : Artist Sought To Paint Mural Highlighting Conservation & Water Quality

Proposals must be received by July 1, 2016

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey encourages Iowa artists to submit proposals to paint a mural highlighting conservation and water quality efforts in Iowa during the Iowa State Fair this year. The mural will be part of an “Ag Park” space in Agricultural Building on the fairgrounds and serve as a visual representation of how conservation should be a focus in both urban and rural areas.

“This is a new addition to our display the Ag Building during the State Fair and we are excited to see the creativity and talent of Iowa artists who can help us show the commitment by Iowa farmers to protecting the land and improving water quality,” Northey said.

The Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship along with the Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Turkey Federation, Iowa Egg Council, Iowa Beef Industry Council, Midwest Dairy Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association and the Iowa Soybean Association, are seeking Iowa artists to submit proposals for a 6-panel, 8 foot by 24 foot wall that will be on display during the fair.

The mural should reflect agriculture’s commitment to conservation and water quality within the state as well as the beauty and an overall appreciation for Iowa agriculture. Key elements that the mural must represent are each area of Iowa agriculture that are participating in the display (Beef, Pork, Dairy, Egg, Turkey, Poultry, Corn, Soybeans and Bio-fuels).

Other elements to consider including: buffers along streams, wildlife, farm wetlands, ponds, terraces, grassed waterways, livestock building structures with waste containment and windbreaks along buildings.

At least a portion of the mural must be painted during the Iowa State Fair, August 11 – 21, 2016. Live painting is required for at least two hours each day between the times of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Workload and schedule will be left to the discretion of the artist and approved by the selection committee before the fair begins.

Iowa artists that are 18 years of age or older are eligible to apply. Proposals are due by July 1, 2016 and must be of the artist's original design. Collaboration encouraged and artists must submit samples or images of the proposed mural artwork along with the Official Entry Form for consideration. If selected, final plans will be submitted July 28, 2016.

The selected artist will receive up to $500 for reimbursement of supplies and a commission of $1500 upon completion of the mural. The commission is from support from Iowa agriculture organizations and not taxpayer dollars.

The winning artist will be selected and notified by a committee by July 11, 2016.

The artist will be expected to participate in media interviews scheduled by Ag Park participants. Finished project and copyright of project are property of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Artist will sign a waiver of liability in agreement of the award acceptance

More information and a copy of the call for artists and application can be found at www.IowaAgriculture.gov under “Hot Topics.”