Southside Education and Training Center (SETC) Public Arts Project
Issued by: Alamo Colleges District
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Submission Deadline: August 17, 2026
Contact Email: ecastillo34@alamo.edu
Overview
The Alamo Colleges District seeks artists or artist teams interested in creating, fabricating, and installing a site-specific exterior sculpture for the Southside Education and Training Center (SETC), a member of the Alamo College District. This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will establish a pool of pre-qualified artists who may be invited to submit a full art proposal in our Request for Proposals (RFP) application in the fall.
About the Southside Education & Training Center at the Alamo Colleges District
The Southside Education and Training Center (SETC) serves as a workforce development hub that prepares individuals for careers in high-demand industries. Its programs include Information Technology, Healthcare, Advanced Manufacturing, Skilled Trades, Business and Professional Services, Transportation and Logistics, and other industry-recognized credential pathways designed to meet regional workforce needs. SETC supports a diverse community of learners, including recent high school graduates, working adults seeking career advancement, military veterans and their spouses, career changers, underemployed and unemployed individuals, and lifelong learners from a wide range of cultural, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
As a catalyst for economic mobility and workforce development across San Antonio’s South Side and the greater Bexar County region, SETC connects residents with education, employer partnerships, and meaningful career opportunities. Through accessible training and industry-aligned programming, the center strengthens both the local workforce and regional economy while fostering opportunity, resilience, innovation, and lifelong learning. SETC stands as an important community asset that empowers individuals and responds to the evolving needs of area employers.
Eligibility
This call is open to all professional artists or artist teams with experience in creating public art installations. Artists from all backgrounds, cultures, and artistic styles are encouraged to apply. Local and Texas-based artists are especially encouraged to participate and incorporate their unique insights into the project.
Specific Eligibility Requirements:
- Are 21 years of age or older
- Have experience with public or institutional art
- Can demonstrate successful completion of completed projects of this scale
All qualified applicants will be considered.
Submission Requirements
Please submit the following materials as a single PDF document:
- Artist Statement (1 page maximum):
○ Describe your artistic approach and any relevant experience working on public art projects, particularly those requiring public engagement.
- Resume or CV:
○ Highlight previous public art, mural, or community-based work.
- Portfolio:
○ Include 5–10 images of past public art projects with brief descriptions (title, date, location, size, materials, budget).
○ For each sample, if applicable, include the title, date, location, dimensions, materials used, budget, and your role in the project.
- References:
○ Provide contact information for two individuals familiar with your work in public or commissioned art.
Submission Instructions
● Format: Submit all materials in a single PDF document.
● Email: Send your submission to ecastillo34@alamo.edu with the subject line: “RFQ Submission – [Your Name]”.
● Deadline: All submissions must be received by August 17, 2026.
Selection Process
Submissions will be reviewed based on:
● Artistic Quality and Originality: Demonstrated through past work and artist statement.
● Experience: Ability to execute projects efficiently and on time, with experience in public, urban, or collaborative settings.
● Flexibility: Responsiveness to site-specific needs and changing urban conditions.
Artists selected through this RFQ will be invited to submit a full art proposal and art rendering.
Timeline (Subject to Change)
● RFQ Release Date: July 1, 2026
● Submission Deadline: August 17, 2026
● Notification of Selection: October 2026
● RFP Deadline (if selected): November 2026
Contact Information
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Dr. Eric Castillo
Associate Vice Chancellor for Arts, Culture, and Community Impact/San Antonio Peace Center
Alamo Colleges District
ecastillo34@alamo.edu
Deadline: 08/17/26
Location: San Antonio Texas
Website: https://www.alamo.edu/about-us/offices-departments/departments/arts-culture-community