The Janet Langsam Vault Project is based on the belief that artists are visionaries who advance social change on both a micro and macro level. The Vault Project seeks to create an opportunity for artists to experiment, expand their practice, and have their voices heard. ArtsWestchester will provide funding for artists to conceptualize and realize site-responsive installations which also engage with important topics in the community. Of the project, Langsam says, “as vaults traditionally hold objects of high value, this space will be a permanent venue for artists to create, explore, and contribute to meaningful conversations. It is meant to elevate the intrinsic value of the arts beyond the marketplace.”

In 1998, as CEO of ArtsWestchester, Langsam led the acquisition and restoration of the People’s Bank & Trust building, a nine-story historic landmark now known as the Arts Exchange. Langsam sees the transformation of the building into an arts center protecting the building as a trusted place for the community. Artist studios, an exhibition and performance space, and educational opportunities are available for area residents and visitors year-round. The Mosler Safe Company’s vault is the focal point of the Grand Banking Room gallery. During ArtsWestchester’s initial renovation of the building in 2000, the vault was converted into a discreet gallery within a gallery. The 168 square foot space is ideal for promoting intimate experiences with outstanding works of art.
 

About the Opportunity:

Artists are invited to submit proposals for the Janet Langsam Vault Project. Selected artists shall receive a grant of $2,500 to realize site-responsive installations. There are two (2) available times. Artists should consider the following in shaping proposals:

• The Vault space is an opportunity in which to change or create an environment. The goal is for the viewer to have a thoughtful interaction by engaging with the work. This is not an opportunity to exhibit individual works of art, but rather to create an immersive experience.

• Successful proposals will envision the space with a message/narrative/clear point of view. All media will be accepted.

• Projects can be provocative, keeping in mind we are an inclusive public space, with a broad audience, which includes many young viewers as well as diverse cultural communities that make up Westchester.

• Applicants should be able to demonstrated a capacity to develop/create an expansive installation.

• Awards will be made by a panel of professionals in the art field.

Application Materials:

- Contact information (name, address, email, etc)

- Vision Statement for the Vault Project (250 words)

- Proposal (up to 5 images of sketches/models/etc)

- Previous Works (up to 3 images)

Timeline: 

RFP opens November 17, 2024

RFP deadline January 31, 2025

Finalist Interviews February 2025

Announcement of Finalist April 2025

Installation May 2025 OR September 2025

Exhibition May - July 2025 OR September - January 2026

Terms:

- Funds are all-inclusive of the needs of the project. ArtsWestchester will not pay past the allotted amount for additional expenses.

- ArtsWestchester reserves the right to decline all proposals if none meet the criteria as scored by the panel.

- Funds will be disbursed after all agreements are signed. 50% will be given at signing and 50% upon satisfactory completion of the installation.

- ArtsWestchester reserves the right to terminate the project if it is deemed unsafe, inappropriate, or not in keeping with the approved proposal.

- ArtsWestchester will clean and prep the Vault prior to installation. Artists can expect white walls and lighting at the beginning of project.

- Artists should be available for an opening reception, which will include a short 10-15 minute artist talk. A private donor reception will be held offsite immediately after. 

Questions can be sent to Adam Chau, achau@artswestchester.org

The Advancing Equity Award is a cornerstone program in ArtsWestchester’s commitment to social justice and recognizes the cultural community is a leader in shaping a just, fair, and equitable Westchester. There are two opportunities - an Artist Award and an Organization Award. 

The ArtsWestchester Advancing Equity Organization Award commends a non-profit cultural organization that serves residents of Westchester and demonstrates exemplary leadership in advancing social justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) through and in the arts. Organizations may be nominated, or self-nominate, for specific programs or initiatives, or for broader service and mission.  Non-profit cultural organizations may be nominated for programs, projects, policies, practices, or other activities which they believe demonstrate outstanding leadership in advancing EDIA. To support the awardee in its continuing commitment to service, the Advancing Equity Arts Award comes with a $25,000 recognition grant.

The Advancing Equity Artist Award recognizes an individual artist whose body of work and creative practice advance social justice and EDIA within and through the arts. To support the awardee in its continuing commitment to service, the Advancing Equity Artist Award comes with a $5,000 recognition grant.

A leader in EDIA is an ally that demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing their own awareness, knowledge and skills related to diversity, equity, and inclusion; works to elevate the voices of historically underrepresented and marginalized peoples; and promotes a sense of belonging programming, policies, and best practices.

Organizations and artists may self-nominate. Organizations should serve Westchester County residents. and artist must reside or maintain a studio in Westchester County.