Park City Seeks Artists to Design Artwork for 21 New Bus Shelters

Park City is set to triple its decorated bus stops after formally issuing a call for artists to design and install artwork on up to 21 new shelters, with the Public Art Advisory Board accepting proposals through 5 p.m. on May 1.

The initiative, titled "Timeless Connections" Bus Shelter Art Phase II, builds on an earlier round that produced eight artist-enhanced shelters across the city. Valdez, speaking on behalf of the Public Art Advisory Board, said the purpose runs deeper than visual appeal. "Public artworks tell the story of a city and help give visitors a 'glimpse of what this ski town is made of,'" she said.

The "Timeless Connections" theme asks artists to examine the relationships, histories and transformations that have shaped Park City over time. One constraint defines where designs can appear: artwork will be applied exclusively to the wooden panels or wooden components of each shelter, with all other structural elements off-limits.

Artists and artist teams may propose designs for a single shelter, several shelters, or a cohesive concept spanning all 21 locations, with no cap on the number of proposals per artist or team. The final shelter count may shift based on coordination with the city's Engineering and Transportation teams.

Valdez described what the board is looking for in submissions. "Bringing in that sense of place of Park City and tying the history and the things we're known for, having all those elements and keeping in mind the theme, the public art board's goal is to have wayfinding and that connection to Park City in mind," she said.

The city will host a pre-proposal meeting on April 15 for artists considering a submission. Completed proposals must reach the Public Art Advisory Board by 5 p.m. on May 1, after which the board will select finalists and present them to City Council.

Valdez said the new artwork also supports the city's goals of improving transportation and increasing sustainability, and she encouraged artists at any stage of their career to apply. "We're just really looking forward to this round, and we are looking forward to see what beautiful art that describes Park City is submitted," she said.

The full RFP and submission requirements are available through the Park City website. The city's offices are located at 445 Marsac Avenue.