Procurement #164562


Title
Call for Art- Wilma P. Mankiller Capitol Park Statue
Status
Active
OpenDate
05/12/2026
CloseDate
07/02/2026
Description
Cherokee Nation invites qualified Cherokee Nation artists or artist teams to submit proposals for a permanent art installation honoring the life, leadership, and legacy of Chief Wilma P. Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation.
Detail
Summary The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the livelihoods of Cherokee artists. The temporary closure of art galleries and the cancellation of art shows and exhibitions have severely affected their income. To help Cherokee artists, rebound culturally and economically, the Cherokee Artist Recovery Act includes funds for the acquisition of Cherokee art. Cherokee Nation Businesses (CNB) is accepting proposals for an outdoor statue honoring the life, leadership, and legacy of Chief Wilma P. Mankiller. Any potential third-party vendors to be used will need to be approved through the Cherokee Nation TERO offices to ensure compliance of TERO laws. CNB only accepts bids from Cherokee Nation citizens who can provide identification. Artwork selected will receive a label to accompany its future display, with the Artist Recovery Act insignia and supplemental text “Property of Cherokee Nation- Acquisition made possible by the Cherokee Artist Recovery Act.” Description Cherokee Nation invites qualified Cherokee Nation artists or artist teams to submit proposals for a permanent art installation honoring the life, leadership, and legacy of Chief Wilma P. Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. The work should reflect the themes that defined her impact of leadership, advocacy, and community and celebrate her enduring contributions to Indigenous rights, social justice, and community empowerment. This project seeks to create a meaningful, inspiring, and culturally grounded artistic expression accessible to all visitors Proposed artwork should thoughtfully explore and depict: • Leadership: Chief Mankiller’s visionary approach to governance, nation-building, and uplifting community voices. • Advocacy: Her work in advancing Indigenous rights, healthcare access, community development, and social equity. • Community: Her belief in collective strength, grassroots engagement, and cultural resilience. Artistic concepts may include (but are not limited to): • A statue or sculptural figure • Bronze busts • Integrated multi-element installations • Symbolic artistic components that reflect Cherokee culture, values, and history Artists are encouraged to propose medium and scale appropriate to the installation location. Mentorship Requirement A core component of this project is the intentional development of emerging artists. Proposals must include an artist mentorship plan, which may involve: • Hands-on participation by youth or emerging artists • Teaching sessions, workshops, or skill-shares • Shadowing the fabrication or installation process • A clearly defined learning outcome for participants The selected artist or team will be responsible for implementing this mentorship during the project timeline. Project Proposal should include: • Conceptual rendering of proposed installation, including proposed mediums with proposed dimensions • General approach to project • Narrative of theming and interpretation • Proposed project schedule with key milestones, including installation timeline o Artist(s) may submit bid as a phased approach if providing details of what will be completed during each phase. • If proposed as a team of two or more artists, the following must be included: o A project lead as the general contractor and a list of other artists as subcontractors o Cherokee Nation Businesses will hold contract with the project lead, who will work directly with Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism staff to coordinate artwork and installation o All team members must be citizens of the Cherokee Nation • Projected estimate with a breakdown of associated costs such as labor, materials and artist fees. (broken down per artist, if applicable) • Proposal should include cost of the footing and the base of the monument. • The possible weight of the finished product should be included. Anything over 250 pounds could require the rental of a crane or lift and would need to be added into the proposal. • Artwork will apply to all safety standards and structural requirements • Artwork must be suitable for outdoor elements Mentorship Methodology • Structure of the mentorship program • Planned activities, curriculum, or engagement timeline • Proposed participants (e.g., local youth, tribal youth programs, emerging artists) • Expected outcomes and evaluation approach REQUIREMENTS  Artists’ submissions should examples of relative experience with photographs  Artists are allowed to submit a maximum of two proposals  Artists that submit their work with syllabary will be subject to having our translation team review for accuracy.  Artists’ work will be subject to a review of cultural authenticity.  It is the artist’s responsibility to mail or deliver the art if selected. Proof of Citizenship Cherokee Nation law requires the purchase of art from Cherokee Nation citizens only. You must submit a copy of your Blue Card or Citizenship Card when submitting an initial proposal. No exceptions. Bid information for digital submissions: Bids can be submitted digitally to CED Purchasing Manager, Amy Eubanks at artbidsubmissions@cnbglobal.com by July 2, 2026. If you have any questions, please contact Amy Eubanks via email or at (918) 422-6593.
Name:Amy Eubanks
Email:amy.eubanks@cn-bus.com
Phone:422-6593
Cherokee Nation Businesses
Documents

Summary