The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) on Monday announced the release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) seeking artists to create site-specific, integrated public art for The New Concourse D, currently under construction at O’Hare International Airport. The RFQ identifies seven art opportunities across Levels 2 and 3 of the new 19-gate passenger concourses, the first major passenger facility being delivered through ORDNext. The commissions, valued at approximately $3.8 million, will encompass lighting, suspended sculpture, outdoor sculpture, wall art, and other integrated approaches designed to enhance the passenger journey. The City will select artists through a competitive qualifications-based process. Details regarding artist eligibility, individual commission budgets, evaluation criteria, required application materials and the anticipated project schedule are available in the complete RFQ. Applications must be submitted via the CAFÉ online application by 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 30, 2026. The complete RFQ and supporting materials are available at https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/provdrs/public_art_program.html.

Photo Credit: The Chicago Department of Aviation