Have the students research Joe Fafard?s public art practice, and hear what he has to say about public art on the NGC Fafard mini-site on Cybermuse.

To have points of reference, have the students find requests for proposals for public art online. Based on their research have the class brainstorm, define requirements and outline a ?make-believe? request for proposals for a public art sculpture. The outline should include a list of appropriate materials, a budget, a time frame, and a reason, ?Why is this sculpture being commissioned?? The ?why? part of the outline is critical as it will be a jumping off point for the students proposals.

Have each student submit a proposal for a class constructed art project, which fulfills the ?make-believe? request for proposals for a public art sculpture (defined in step 2). The proposal should include an artist statement, a list of materials with an accompanying budget, a project sketch, a list of the work to be completed and a project time line.

Have each student present their proposal to the class, using appropriate art vocabulary and terminology. Following the presentations hold a secret ballot where the students vote on the proposal they are most interested in working on. Remind students that the work to be selected should fulfill the ?make-believe? request for proposals for a public art sculpture (defined in step 2).

The student who wins the vote will become the project leader, working under the mentorship of the teacher to see the project to completion. The teacher is responsible for distributing the remaining work amongst the students. Work as a team under the guidance of the teacher, and leadership of the commission-winning student to construct the project as designed. Prior to beginning work, the teacher should ensure that the students are familiar with any new tools and techniques that they will be required to use.