RFQ: Rowan Medical Center

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REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)

Exterior Mural Project – Emergency Department
Rowan Medical Center

Project Overview

Rowan Medical Center is seeking qualifications from local artists to design and paint two side-by-side, semi-permanent exterior murals to be installed on the right side of the Emergency Department entrance.

The Emergency Department is a high-traffic point of arrival for patients, families and caregivers. Artwork in this location should support a sense of calm, reassurance and dignity while remaining visually uplifting and welcoming.

The murals will be experienced together and must be visually and thematically related, forming a cohesive installation that contributes positively to the healing environment.

This RFQ is issued by Rowan Medical Center, with Charlotte Is Creative serving as project administrator. All communications related to this RFQ will be managed through Charlotte Is Creative.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to artists living and working in Rowan County and/or the greater Charlotte region.

Artists may apply as individuals or as part of a collaborative team. While a single artist or team will be selected, team-based applications are welcome.

Project Scope & Site Details

  • Number of murals: Two
  • Installation type: Exterior
  • Location: Right side of Emergency Department entrance
  • Wall material: Brick
  • Mural dimensions:
  • Panel 1: 7.75 feet x 7.25 feet
  • Panel 2: 7.75 feet x 7.25 feet
  • Murals are adjacent and must be conceptually and visually related
  • Murals will be painted directly onto the brick surface
  • No special equipment is required beyond a standard ladder

Murals must be sealed and finished to last a minimum of 3–5 years, with professional-grade materials and protective coatings appropriate for exterior brick surfaces and long-term durability.

Chosen artist must present articles of insurance for up to $1 million in coverage by the start of the project.  

Click here to download photo of this space.

Artistic Direction

Artists are encouraged to propose original concepts. Content is artist-led, with the following guiding principles: – Calm and reassuring in tone – Trauma-informed and patient-centered – Appropriate for an Emergency Department setting – Visually uplifting without being overstimulating

Explicit medical imagery, text-heavy designs or imagery that could heighten anxiety should be avoided.

Budget

  • Artist Fee: $3,600 total
  • Materials Budget: $400-550 (separate from artist fee)

The artist fee is intended to cover concept development, design, coordination and execution of the murals. Materials, sealants and coatings will be reimbursed or provided through the separate materials budget. Any materials used must be suitable for exterior brick and long-term exposure.

Schedule

  • RFQ Release: Feb. 5
  • Submission Deadline: 23th at 5 p.m.
  • Artist Notification: March 4
  • The start of development is expected by the end of March 2026 (exact dates to be coordinated)

Submission Requirements

Applicants should submit the following materials:

  1. Letter of Interest (no more than one page)
  • Brief overview of interest in the project
  • Artistic approach and relevant experience
  • Indicate whether applying as an individual or team
  1. Work Samples
  • 5–8 examples of relevant work
  • Murals or large-scale public work preferred, but not required
  1. Artist Resume or CV
  • Include public art, mural or community-based experience if applicable
  1. Proof of Local Practice
  • Website, social media links or brief statement confirming local residency or practice

Selection Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated based on: – Artistic quality and originality – Demonstrated ability to create work appropriate for healthcare and community settings – Experience with murals or large-scale work – Understanding of trauma-informed, patient-centered environments – Ability to complete the project within scope, budget and timeline

Finalists may be asked to participate in a follow-up conversation prior to selection.

Administration & Questions

This RFQ is presented by Rowan Medical Center. Charlotte Is Creative is serving as project administrator and will manage all communications.

All questions and submissions should be directed to:

ATTN: Tim Miner and Makayla Binter
Charlotte Is Creative
eMAIL: hello@charlotteiscreative.com

Rowan Medical Center reserves the right to reject any or all submissions and to select the artist or team that best aligns with the goals of the project.