Public Outreach and Schools Engagement

Art for Ogden Centre West 2024-2025

We are really excited to be able to launch a new commissioning opportunity for a participatory visual artist to work with astronomers and young people. The project will result in the creation of artwork to be exhibited in Durham University’s Ogden Centre for Fundamental Physics, the flagship building designed by the internationally renowned Studio Libeskind.

Proposals from artists working in a wide range of visual media are welcomed. The commission must reflect or interpret the research and be sympathetic to the building. A commission fee of up to £8000 is available to cover the development and delivery of workshops with young people, the artist’s transport, materials for the artwork, and the creation of the final piece. (Note that a separate budget covers the material costs of the workshops with young people).

The details of the commission can be found here: art.pdf.

Although our tender event will not be published until July, we’re happy to receive expressions of interest. You can do this by completing the Registration Form below with your contact details (full name, email address). Any interest received will be recorded. An invitation to tender will be emailed to you in July.

Applications must be received through the University’s Oracle (e-sourcing) System by 5pm on 1 August. Please note that you must register on the System so do allow time to complete the registration process. We are happy to provide support in doing this. No submissions or further applications can be accepted past the tender closing date.

Find out more!

To help you to respond to this commission, we are running a free Opportunities 'coffee morning'.
Wednesday 10th July, 10am-12pm
Ogden Centre West, Durham University
The session is designed to help you explore the possibilities of the commission. Detailed information and advice about the commission and the application process will be provided. The day will include a tour of the building and opportunities to chat with academic researchers and the commissioning team who will offer advice about how best to respond to the proposal, present your work, prepare a budget and demonstrate your capacity to engage in the initiative.

Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment!
Register here: Microsoft Teams Form
Bookings for this session will close on Sunday 30th June. For any queries, please contact Lorraine at l.s.coghill@durham.ac.uk

Other Outreach

• Durham Astronomy Girl's Day
• The Stargoal Project