John O'Groats Artist's Commission

10th September 2014

This commission is a substantial opportunity for a permanent feature work in a stunning and very special site - John O\'Groats - one of Britain\'s best known destinations where a major transformation has been underway over the
last few years.

In leading this development, HIE have been committed to working with artists to ensure a creative and unique
development to the highest standards, reflecting the special sense of place of this stunning location.

A series of temporary and permanent works have been delivered so far; based on extensive research, broad consultation and working closely with the community - see John O\'Groats Public Art and the John O'Groats Concept Art Report:
http://www.hie.co.uk/investors/regionally-significant-investments/jog/public-arts-strategy.html

The work will be located at a central point in the public area above the harbour. This preferred site is a raised open grassy area overlooking the harbour and the Pentland Firth.

This project is part funded by Creative Scotland through its Public Art funds.

This tender exercise will follow a competitive two stage process. Stage 1, the PQQ, is designed to allow HIE to identify a number of suitably qualified and experienced artists. The highest scoring (maximum of 4) from Stage 1 will be shortlisted and invited to go forward to Stage 2 - the Invitation to Tender (ITT) (Concept Design) Stage, which will
include an interview. Those shortlisted will be provided with a fee towards their Concept Design stage.

The deadline for responses (PQQs) to the first stage (selection) being 12 noon on 30th September 2014. It is currently anticipated that a contract will be awarded around 3rd December 2014.

Further details of this tender can be located on the Public Contracts Scotland website at
http://www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk/search/show/search_view.aspx?ID=SEP186475