Bandstand Weathervane Project- Call To Artist

Application: 

Click HERE 

Bandstand Weathervane Project 

SITE AND PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The project site is the rooftop of the Bandstand located in Capitola’s Esplanade Park, a central hub for community gatherings, concerts, and events. The Bandstand sits in a high-visibility area near Capitola Beach and serves as a recognizable icon in the community.

The Commission envisions a creative, durable, and visually striking weathervane that is inspired by Capitola’s coastal location, cultural heritage, natural beauty or captures the uniqueness of the setting. Artists are encouraged to consider whimsical, abstract, or representational forms that will be visible from the beach and surrounding area. The final work must be structurally sound, wind- and weather-resistant, and suitable for permanent outdoor installation on a rooftop.

Artists must ensure their design meets all applicable ADA and technical specifications included in the attachments. While the weathervane will be mounted out of reach, factors such as wind load, weight, and mounting method must be addressed. Artists may collaborate with structural engineers or fabricators to ensure feasibility. The final work will require City and engineering approval prior to installation.

PUBLIC ART BUDGET

The public art budget for this project is $5,000.

This includes all expenses related to design, fabrication, artist travel, insurance, and transport of materials. The City will coordinate and pay separately for final installation via bucket truck in consultation with the artist. Any ongoing maintenance recommendations should be included.

ARTIST ELIGIBILITY

This opportunity is open to artists living or working on the west coast of the United States (California, Oregon, Washington). Applicants must have legal eligibility to work in the United States at the time of submittal.

SELECTION PROCESS AND EVALUATION CRITERIA

The selection process for this project has two phases:

Phase One: Review of Submittals

A selection panel including members of the Art & Cultural Commission, City staff, and community stakeholders will review artist qualifications. Up to three (3) finalists will be selected to develop and present design proposals. Artists will be asked to submit sample concepts and rough budget estimates.

Phase One Selection Criteria:

Artistic quality and originality
Feasibility and durability of proposed concept
Experience with outdoor, sculptural, or rooftop installations
Relevance to Capitola’s community and location
Cost value

Phase Two: Final Proposal Presentations
Finalists will receive a $500 stipend to create and present a scaled proposal or model. Presentations may be in person or via Zoom. The Commission will recommend one proposal to be considered for final approval by the City Council.

Phase Two Selection Criteria:

Innovation and aesthetic impact
Suitability to the Bandstand and surrounding environment
Engineering feasibility
Longevity and maintenance requirements

CONTRACT

The selected artist will enter into a contract with the City of Capitola based on a standard design-fabrication agreement. Execution of the contract is contingent on final project approval by the City Council and acceptance of terms by the artist.

ANTICIPATED TIMELINE

August 12, 2025 – Commission reviews and approves Call to Artists
November 12, 2025 – Call to Artists Released
January 28, 2026 – Submission Deadline
March 10, 2026 – Selection of Finalists
April 14, 2026 – Finalist Presentations to Commission
May/June 2026 – Proposal presentation to City Council
Summer 2026 – Fabrication and Installation

Timeline subject to change.

SUBMITTAL GUIDELINES

Submit the following by 5:00 p.m. on January 28, 2026:

1. Cover Sheet

• Project Title: Bandstand Weathervane

• Artist’s Name, Phone Number, Email, Mailing Address, Website (if applicable)

2. Resume (2 pages max)
3. Portfolio

• Up to 10 images (PDF or JPEGs) of prior public art or relevant works

4. References

• Contact information for three professional references

Submit via email to:
Nikki Bryant
nbryant@ci.capitola.ca.us
City of Capitola
4510 Jade St
Capitola, CA 95010
831-475-5935 x401

Questions?
Contact Nikki Bryant at 831-475-5935 or nbryant@ci.capitola.ca.us.