Artist opportunity: Thornton pump station upgrades

Steps to apply

• |

• 

  Step 1: Review the artist opportunity

  We’re seeking 1 artist or artist team to create a production-ready digital vector design for perforated mesh fencing at the Thornton pump station.

  The selected artwork will be integrated into the fencing system. We will manage fabrication and installation. The fabrication method will be confirmed with the vendor. Artists are only required to deliver the final digital design.

  Artist fee

  $15,000

• 

  Step 2: Confirm your eligibility

  Who can apply

  This call is open to Vancouver-based artists and local Nations-based artists.

  Equity and inclusion

  This artist call is guided by our cultural equity commitments in Culture|Shift 2020–2029 PDF file (12 MB) and the UNDRIP Action Plan 2024–2028 PDF file (614 KB). These frameworks shape how we design, assess, and support this opportunity, with a focus on equity, Reconciliation, accessibility, and meaningful inclusion.

  Who we consider an artist

  For this call, you’re considered an artist if you meet any of these criteria:

  • Have completed basic academic training in art or an apprenticeship with an accomplished practitioner
  • Maintain an artistic practice and have publicly shared an independent body of work for at least 2 years
  • Are recognized as an artist by peers in your community

  What we mean by Vancouver-based

  For the purposes of this call, you’re considered Vancouver-based if you meet any of these criteria:

  • Live in Vancouver
  • Have a studio in Vancouver
  • Have a history of producing work in Vancouver

  What we mean by local Nations-based

  For this call, a local Nations-based artist is someone who meets both of these criteria:

  • Identifies as a member of 1 of the 3 local Nations—xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), or səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation)
  • Is recognized by their Nation as a member

  Application review process

  We will review applications for eligibility and completeness. Only complete applications will move forward to the selection panel for adjudication.

• 

  Step 3: Review project requirements

  Design specifications

  The fence is approximately 3.05 metres high and 43.85 metres long. Artwork is required for up to 30 metres of the fence.

  The site is highly visible from Main Street, nearby park pathways, and the Pacific Central transit hub, making this a prominent public-facing project. Review the artist opportunity for exact dimensions and examples (1 MB)

  What you’ll need to deliver

  • Scalable vector design suitable for perforated mesh
  • Consideration of visibility, contrast, viewing distance, and perforation and opacity effects
  • Final files in DXF and PDF formats
  • Colour and production notes
  • Low-resolution proof for review
• 

  Step 4: Prepare your submission materials

  Submit 1 Expression of Interest, either individually or as part of a team.

  To be considered, include:

  • Contact information: Full name, pronouns, email, and phone number
  • Artist biography: Up to 2 paragraphs describing your practice and any training
  • Sample artwork: 4 to 6 images with brief descriptions. Previous public art experience is welcome but not required. Accepted formats: JPG, PNG, PDF
  • Statement of interest (300 to 500 words): Why you’re interested in this project and any early ideas you’d like to explore. A finished concept is not required.
• 

  Step 5: Check key dates

  Information icon Dates are subject to change.

  	Date
  Artist call opens	Wednesday, March 18, 2026
  Application deadline	Wednesday, April 29, 2026 (11:59pm PST)
  Adjudication panel selects artists	Wednesday, May 13, 2026
  Artist or artist team notified	Thursday, May 14, 2026
  Detailed draft design due	Monday, June 15, 2026
  Final vector file delivered	Wednesday, July 1, 2026
  Fabrication and installation	Subject to construction sequencing

• 

  Step 6: Submit your application 

  Send submissions or ask questions

  • Email: Faith Moosang at [email protected]
  • Subject line: Thornton pump station art opportunity

  Accessibility needs

  We’re committed to making this opportunity accessible to all artists. If you have accessibility needs, require accommodations, or would like help preparing or submitting your application, contact us. We’ll work with you to support an accessible and inclusive application process.

• 

  Step 7: Learn how applications are reviewed and selected

  Staff review

  We check submissions for eligibility and completeness, then forward a shortlist.

  Adjudication panel

  A panel of 4 members with public art and public realm experience reviews submissions and recommends an artist or team.

  How applications are scored

  The adjudication panel will score applications based on: 

  • Strength and creativity of past work (25% of score)
  • Demonstrated ability to produce and present artwork (25% of score) 
  • Technical ability with digital vector design (25% of score) 
  • Shows meaningful connection to the project (25% of score) 

• |

• 

  About Thornton Park and the pump station project

  Thornton Park is a significant civic gateway space at Main Street and Terminal Avenue, adjacent to the historic Pacific Central Station, containing existing public artworks and memorials.  

  The Thornton pump station, positioned at the southeast corner of Thornton Park, near the Main Street-Science World Skytrain Station, is currently undergoing a City-led upgrade to support growing neighbourhood needs, with fencing providing a visible and impactful surface for integrated design.