Request for Exhibitions at Cherry Street Pier

The Delaware River Waterfront Corp (DRWC) is requesting proposals for exhibitions at its newest public space Cherry Street Pier (CSP). DRWC is a nonprofit with a mission to design, develop, program and maintain public amenities along the central Delaware River Waterfront. We aim to transform the waterfront into a vibrant destination for recreational, cultural, and commercial activities for the residents and visitors of Philadelphia.

The organization is excited to use this new attraction on the waterfront to highlight the great art in and around Philadelphia. CSP is a multi-use space with artists-in-residence, numerous public events, video screens, flex spaces, and a 2000-square foot Gallery. DRWC is looking to work with artists, curators, collectives, peer arts organizations, writers, and creative individuals, regardless of background or location to showcase their work in the gallery space for one (1) month intervals.  

Considerations:

• The Pier is not climate controlled. Exhibitions should be able to withstand wide temperature ranges. Previous successful installations include large mural panels, photographs printed on waterproof paper, dried floral exhibition, and sculpture.
• The Gallery itself is 2,000 sf and is contained within the larger 55,000 sf CSP. The most successful installations to date show large pieces or multiple pieces that can fill the wall space. There are approximately 120’-0” of wall space available to artists.
• Please note that the space is constructed from shipping containers and the walls are corrugated metal with a limited number of hanging and installation systems. We strongly recommend looking at the photos below, visiting the site, or contacting us to discuss installation techniques. Artists will be responsible for installing their show in conjunction with DRWC staff.
• Each show will run for one (1) month. DRWC is looking for exhibitions through the end of Winter 2019.
• DRWC encourages incoming artists to activate the space by holding events such as receptions, screenings, artist talks, performances, or workshops.
• The artist will be responsible for the transactions involved in selling their pieces. Artists receive 100% of their sales. DRWC will not take a commission fee.
• The artist should take into consideration that CSP is a relatively new public space with the potential to see high-volumes of visitors (estimates an average of 20,000 per month).
• The artist should keep in mind that the public will interact with their art whether or not that is the intention.
• While  CSP has security during its open hours, the Gallery does not have dedicated security to monitor the pieces. Of note, DRWC is not responsible for damage or loss of property while the exhibition is on the Pier.  

Budget: Up to $500 for installation fees. All shipping and transportation costs are the responsibility of the artist.

• Funding/support beyond the above is not guaranteed, but we are happy to provide letters of support and will work to connect selected artists with local resources that may provide additional funding/connections.

Location: Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Columbus Blvd. (see picture and map below for Gallery location)

Dimensions: 80’ wide x 24’ deep

Timeline:

• Friday, May 24th: Proposals due EOD
• Wednesday, June 7th: Proposals selected and applicants notified

Proposal Details:

• The proposal should include:
• A brief bio or description (250 words or less) of the organization/individual
• 300 word description of proposed exhibition
• Eight (8) hi-res  images or links to videos
• Please note if you are planning on holding an opening reception, artist talk, or any other type of activation

Fee for Proposal: None

Selection Criteria: DRWC will use a jury consisting of staff, CSP artists-in-residence, and local artists and arts organization representatives. They will be choosing shows to create a calendar that is:

• Representative of multiple different types of artistic disciplines
• Representative of Philadelphia and the region’s artistic communities
• While all proposals will be seriously considered, highest priority is generally given to those that fully use the uniqueness of our space and offerings.
• Able to fit within the restraints of the pier (high traffic, environmental conditions, security)
• Large enough to fill the space
• Include additional activations of the space such as artists talks or interactive activities