Project Description:

MOSI is a not-for-profit, community-based institution and educational resource that is dedicated to advancing public interest, knowledge, and understanding of science, industry, and technology. MOSI's core ideology is to make a difference in people's lives by making science real for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Part of the MOSI complex, Kids in Charge! is the largest children’s science center in the country. Kids In Charge! is a uniquely designed space for children twelve and under. Based on cutting-edge theories about learning and skill building, Kids In Charge! emphasizes the value of learning through play by bringing together science and creative thinking to inspire the imagination.

The selected artwork should encourage patrons of MOSI to appreciate the wonders of science and how the world around them works. The MOSI experience is designed to be both fun and educational, the artwork should reflect this. The artwork could be either static or dynamic. Instrumental in the development of the Kids in Charge! Science Center is an advisory board of children who provide guidance and planning. This advisory board will be an active participant in the process. Artists with experience working with children are encouraged to apply.

May 11, 2007 - Submission deadline

Second Quarter 2007

• Artist submission review and short-listed artists selected for proposal phase

Third Quarter 2007

• Artists notified of selections
• Selected artists prepare and present proposals for review
• Public display of proposal documents
• Final artworks selected for commission

Opportunities for Public Art

Several areas exist both inside and outside the Museum to create public art depicting or eluding to the themes of Science. Opportunities for art include, but are not limited to the following:

Outdoor Science Park
The large grassy area just outside the Children’s Science Center is planned to become a science park. An artwork in this area could be the cornerstone of this future project.

Pedestrian Overpass Walkway
This bridge was designed to create safe and easy access between the various schools located across Fowler Avenue from the Museum. The artwork could conceptually connect MOSI with the neighboring educational community.

Historic Tree Grove
This landscaped area in between the parking lot and the Museum Entrance contains pathways, a gazebo, and trees commemorating historic figures. The artwork could enhance an appreciation for nature or the contributions of the historic figures honored in this area.

Entrance corridor to Kids in Charge!
In between the bookstore and the exhibition hall, artwork in this glass walled corridor could prepare visitors for the experiences awaiting them and the fun of interacting with science related themes.

Exterior Lighting
The Museum is prominently located on Fowler Avenue and directly across the street from USF. An artwork, incorporated into the building or projected onto it could communicate to passersby the possibilities that await them inside MOSI. This artwork would be especially visible from the street and at night.

Source for additional information
MOSI: www.mosi.org

Hillsborough County Public Art Program
601 E. Kennedy Blvd.
Tampa, Florida 33601
Telehone: (813) 307-1070