PROJECT FOR EMPTY SPACE Submission Manager

Welcome to Project for Empty Space's Submittable!

Project for Empty Space (PES) is a multifaceted arts organization that includes Exhibitions, Artists Residencies, Public Art initiatives, subsidized Artist Studios, and Artist Professional Development/Granting opportunities. Our programs lean into social discourse, including narratives that have been historically and systemically erased. We strive to course-correct historic instances of forced marginality, in-equity, and in-visibility. Today, in our efforts to support socially-oriented artists, we maintain a commitment to holding space for both looking back and looking to new potentials and futures. Learn more about us at projectforemptyspace.org

We currently invite artists to apply for opportunities connected to our new public art partnership with RWJBarnabas Health, including a large-scale mural commission at 604 Market Street in Newark’s Ironbound neighborhood, as well as to join the Newark Artists Database — a free platform created to highlight and celebrate artists whose creative practices are rooted in Newark.

CALL FOR ARTISTS: EXTERIOR MURAL COMMISSION FOR RWJBARNABAS HEALTH & SAINT JAMES HEALTH CLINIC

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RWJBarnabas Health, in partnership with Saint James Health (SJH), is commissioning an exterior mural for the redevelopment of 604 Market Street in Newark’s Ironbound neighborhood. This new outpatient clinic will expand access to community-based healthcare services and serve as a visible investment in the health and well-being of Newark residents.

In collaboration with Newark-based arts nonprofit Project for Empty Space (PES), RWJBarnabas Health invites proposals from New Jersey–based artists for this public art commission.

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The selected artist will create a mural that reflects the shared mission of RWJBarnabas Health and Saint James Health: delivering accessible, compassionate, whole-family care rooted in dignity, trust, and long-term community wellbeing.

The mural should communicate—without words—that this is a place where people are welcomed, supported, and cared for. It should feel approachable to all who encounter it, including patients, families, staff, neighbors, and young people, and convey a broad understanding of wellness: not only treatment in moments of need, but also prevention, nourishment, healing, and support across generations.

Located in the Ironbound, the mural should feel grounded in Newark and responsive to the surrounding neighborhood while contributing a warm, visible, and uplifting presence along Market Street.

ABOUT THE CLINIC

The new outpatient clinic, operated by Saint James Health within an RWJBarnabas Health–owned facility, will provide a range of primary and specialty services, including adult and pediatric care, OB/GYN services, mental health support, laboratory services, retail pharmacy, and a food pharmacy. Through this partnership, RWJBarnabas Health is investing in the space, infrastructure, and equipment needed to support Saint James Health’s continued delivery of high-quality, community-centered care and to strengthen access to health services for Newark residents.

THEMES

1. Trust, Hope & Healing: The mural should communicate that this is a place of care, safety, and emotional and physical healing. It should create a welcoming first impression that reduces anxiety and builds confidence for patients, families, staff, and neighbors. Artists may integrate human-centered imagery depicting intergenerational figures and diverse community members, emphasizing connection, support, and shared space.

2. Access, Inclusion & Whole-Family Wellness: The mural should reflect that this is a place for everyone—a welcoming and accessible space for care across ages, backgrounds, and circumstances. Artists may depict children, parents, caregivers, and elders in ways that emphasize intergenerational relationships, community belonging, and long-term wellness.

3. Newark Pride & Community Partnership: The mural should feel unmistakably Newark, grounded in the identity of the Ironbound, and reflect the enduring partnership between the healthcare providers and the community. Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from the neighborhood’s energy, variety, and street life.

SCOPE OF WORK

The commission includes design and execution of one exterior mural painted directly to the building surface at 604 Market Street. The artwork should be durable, site-responsive, and visually impactful for both pedestrian and vehicular audiences.

BUDGET / ARTIST FEE

$20,000 total, covering design and installation. Separate budget for materials and equipment.

ELIGIBILITY

This opportunity is open to New Jersey–based artists only.

SELECTION PROCESS & CRITERIA

Applications will be reviewed by a jury of internal stakeholders representing the project partners. Selection will be based on artistic quality, responsiveness to the project themes, demonstrated ability to execute large-scale public work, and suitability of the visual approach to the site and community context.

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