Launchpad, a local business innovation centre, is calling on local artists to submit proposals for a unique, large-scale art commission that will take centre stage in its vibrant atrium.
This is an incredible opportunity for emerging talent to showcase their creativity and contribute to a landmark installation in a place that celebrates innovation, sustainability, and community.
The selected artist will receive a commission of £5,000 to design, create, and install an inspiring piece that encapsulates Launchpad’s role as a hub for business, collaboration, and forward-thinking ideas.
The work must be completed and installed by 31st August 2025.
“Launchpad is all about bringing people together to spark ideas and create something bigger than the sum of its parts,” says Laura Johnson, Centre Manager at Launchpad.
“We want this artwork to embody that energy, reflecting both the entrepreneurial spirit of the local area and the power of collaboration.”
The commission is open to artists aged 16 and over who live, work or study within 10 miles of Launchpad.
The artwork can take the form of a freestanding sculpture or a wall-mounted installation, with an emphasis on durability and suitability for a high-traffic space.
Interested artists are invited to view the site by appointment between Monday 3rd March and Friday 14th March. Then, the form to submit a proposal will be made available on Monday 17th March and the window for submissions will open.
Interested artists must submit a detailed proposal, including:
- their concept,
- materials,
- techniques,
- portfolio examples,
- timeline, and,
- budget breakdown.
The deadline for submissions is midnight on Sunday 6th April 2025.
Launchpad, commissioned by Southend-on-Sea City Council, is a cutting-edge business hub that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.
This commission will be a lasting visual statement of its mission.
For more information visit the website or to arrange a site visit, contact Laura Johnson by emailing ljohnson@oxin.co.uk or call 01702 886992.
ENDS/
Key dates:
- 3rd – 14th March 2025: Artists invited to visit the space (a prerequisite for submission).
- 17th March 2025: Open for submissions.
- 6th April 2025: Deadline for submissions.
- 28th April 2025: Successful artist announced.
- Mid-September 2025: Official unveiling event.
More about Launchpad:
Launchpad is a cutting-edge innovation centre located in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s Airport Business Park.
With a team of locally-based, experienced experts, Launchpad is the growth hub for new and innovative businesses with big aspirations.
The state-of-the-art, sustainable building offers high-quality design, modern and flexible office, shared workspace and meeting rooms. The building has been awarded the highest accreditation of sustainability (an outstanding BREEAM award).
Launchpad provides an environment that has been specifically designed to encourage incubation where businesses with bright ideas can innovate, collaborate, and develop.
As well as a home for business, Launchpad also offers a range of essential workshops covering topics such as financial management, strategy, and marketing, as well as regular opportunities to network with other national hubs through facilitated events.
Businesses based at Launchpad have exclusive access to a Business Growth Manager to help support their growth and innovation with expert, tailored advice and knowledge of suitable schemes and resources.