Aerial rendering of proposed Aplin Center

 

Signature Public Art Commission for the Aplin Center at Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University Announces 2026 Open Call for Artists

Texas A&M University seeks an exceptional professional artist or artist-led team to create a monumental, site-specific public artwork for the Aplin Center, a landmark hospitality and experiential learning facility opening in spring 2028.

This high-profile commission offers the opportunity to create an iconic cultural landmark at one of the nation’s largest public universities. The selected artwork will anchor a new front door to campus and serve as a powerful symbol of welcome, community and the Aggie spirit.

Phase One will be an open call for applicants to submit their qualifications to be considered. Finalists advancing to Phase Two will be provided with more information and instructions.

Site Location

The commission site is a highly visible corner at John Kimbrough Boulevard and Olsen Boulevard, adjacent to Reed Arena (site of university commencement ceremonies) and directly across from Kyle Field and the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center.
The artwork will be experienced by:

  • Prospective students and families
  • Current students
  • Graduates during commencement
  • Alumni and visitors
  • The broader Bryan–College Station community

The Aplin Center is a 211,724-square-foot, three-story facility—one of the largest mass timber university buildings in the U.S.—housing a campus Welcome Center, event venues, hospitality and food science labs, and student-operated retail and dining spaces.

Artistic Vision

The university seeks a work of exceptional scale, aesthetic distinction and conceptual depth that:

  • Embodies themes of welcome, hospitality, home, belonging and shared experience
  • Commands attention and functions as a campus landmark and gathering place
  • Demonstrates mastery of materials and site integration
  • Reflects innovation while honoring Texas A&M traditions
  • Meets all durability, safety and accessibility standards for Central Texas climate

All media will be considered, including monumental sculpture, environmental work, architectural intervention, light-based installation, and interdisciplinary approaches.

Budget & Scope

Applicants selected to advance to Phase Two will be responsible for:

  • Site-specific design development
  • Detailed drawings, renderings, and technical documentation
  • Budget and timeline development
  • Fabrication and installation oversight
  • Coordination with architects, engineers, and university stakeholders
  • Maintenance documentation and public presentations

Finalists advancing to Phase Two will receive a design stipend (amount provided upon invitation).

Timeline

The committee is currently accepting applications through October of 2026 for Phase One. Finalists advancing to Phase Two will receive a detailed timeline for that process. The target for installing this signature piece is spring of 2028.

Eligibility

Open to professional artists and artist-led teams with demonstrated experience in large-scale public art commissions.
Applicants must demonstrate:

  • Artistic excellence
  • Experience with complex public art projects
  • Technical expertise in materials and fabrication
  • Ability to collaborate with institutional clients and project teams

Submission Requirements (RFQ – Phase 1)

Submit a single PDF (max 25 MB) including:

  1. Letter of Interest (max 2 pages)
  2. Resume/CV
  3. Portfolio: 10–15 completed works
  4. Documentation of 3–5 Public Art Projects (include budgets, site context, and client contacts)
  5. Three Professional References
  6. Team Information (if applicable)

File Name: LastName_FirstName_AplinCenter_RFQ.pdf
Submit to: [email protected]
Subject Line: Aplin Center RFQ Submission

 

Questions

Submit questions in writing to: [email protected]
Subject Line: Aplin Center RFQ Question

 

About Texas A&M

Founded in 1876, Texas A&M University enrolls more than 74,000 students and is a flagship public research institution known for its strong traditions, including the “Howdy” greeting and the 12th Man spirit. The Aplin Center will serve as a gateway to campus and a defining symbol of hospitality and community.

Texas A&M University is an equal opportunity employer and provider.
Project governed by Texas Art in Public Places requirements and university public art policies.