Call for Sculpture Artists: Bronze Plaque Project
/Organization:
Trans Mountain
Deadline:
May. 31, 2025
Website:
Call for Artists Description:
Trans Mountain Corporation operates Canada’s only major pipeline system transporting oil products to the West Coast. We invite sculpture artists based in British Columbia or Alberta to submit an expression of interest package for our bronze plaque project.
If you are an experienced sculptor with project management experience, this opportunity may be for you. Due to the material and production requirements for this project, artists with experience in casting and/or established relationships with foundries are also strongly encouraged to apply.
Bronze Plaque Project
Trans Mountain is commissioning a sculpture artist to design and produce seven bronze plaques for facilities across the pipeline system. Each plaque will measure 29.5” W and 19.5” H and will incorporate both text (e.g., company name, facility name, logo, year) and relief imagery.
This project is commemorating the growth of Trans Mountain’s operations following the completion of the Expansion Project in 2024. It draws inspiration from a series of bronze plaques installed at Trans Mountain facilities when they entered service, beginning in 1953. With their combination of text and relief imagery, the original plaques serve both as signage and works of art. As a result, they have become a source of pride for staff and a tangible connection to Trans Mountain’s history. The new series will build on this legacy by celebrating the company’s expanded capabilities and honoring the people who operate it. When installed alongside the originals, the new plaques will visually connect Trans Mountain’s past and future together. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a project that blends function with artistry.
Responsibilities
The artist will be responsible for managing the project from design to delivery, which includes:
- Design: Collaborate with Trans Mountain to finalize a single design that can be applied across the series.
- Casting: Work with either a third-party foundry or their personal foundry to transition the two-dimensional design into the final bronze plaques.
- Delivery: Arrange for the completed plaques to be delivered to Trans Mountain to conclude the project. Trans Mountain will handle installation separately.
Timeline
- Expression of Interest Submission: Interested artists are invited to submit expression of interest packages by May 31, 2025. Trans Mountain will shortlist three artists to develop a project proposal.
- Project Package Submission: Project proposals are due by June 30, 2025, which will include a design mockup and other supporting materials. Each shortlisted candidate is also invited to one of Trans Mountain’s main operating locations for a site visit. Details will be discussed at the time of shortlisting.
- Finalist Selection: A Trans Mountain panel will review the project proposals and select one artist to complete this project. Shortlisted candidates will be notified in early July of the panel’s decision.
- Project Execution: Trans Mountain must be in receipt of the plaques no later than October 31, 2025.
How to Apply:
Trans Mountain invites interested artists to submit an expression package to info@transmountain.com. The packages must include:
• Their CV outlining qualifications and arts-related experience.
• 5-10 images of relevant artworks (i.e., relief, casted or three-dimensional works).
• Contact information Please submit all supporting documents as a single PDF. Use the subject line “Trans Mountain Bronze Plaque Project – Expression of Interest [insert your name]”.
Fees/Compensation:
Shortlisted candidates will receive an honorarium of $1500 for submitting a project proposal. The artist’s fee and project budget will be discussed with candidates upon shortlisting.
Contact Name: Mariah Brusatore
Contact Email: info@transmountain.com
