Roger Reutimann

You Might Recognize:

Perception #11, Ritz Carlton, Chicago, IL

Facebook HQ, Sherry Sandberg, Menlo Park, CA

Perception #3, Emerald Group, Burj Khalifa, Dubai

Perception #1, The Jacquard Hotel, Cherry Creak, Denver, CO

Common Unity, Arvada Art Center, Arvada, CO

Perception #2, Symphony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (no image)

Cadillactus, Palm Springs, CA (Foto in March. 2024)

Public Art Average Success Rate:

5%

 Rejected Project Proposal

Proposed Project Location:

Kai Tak Sports Center, Hong Kong

Concept:

Kai Tak Sports Center, which is being built on the grounds of the old Hong Kong airport, was looking for a monumental sculpture in a figurative, realistic style, representing marathon running (male division). It also had to incorporate the spirit of the old Kai Tak airport, which was notorious for its dangerous landing maneuvers. The sculpture also had to serve as a marathon marker.

For the figurative, realistic aspect of the brief I was showing two runners in opposite directions (180 degree turning marker). For the airport portion I suspended the figures and enclosed them into a globe-like sphere, which was tilted at 23.5 degrees, the same angle as the earth's axes and the sharp left turn of the landing planes. Material: mirror polished stainless steel, 36 feet tall. Budget 1,2 million US$.

"I Regret to Inform You..." Artist Response:

The rejection note mentioned that my proposal was "too literal" and "too formal". The request was very clear: "A figurative AND realistic representation of marathon running, male division". Being literal was the only option to follow the description of the brief. However, it turned out that the exact description of the RFP was lost in translation and it should only have said "figurative", but not "realistic". Unfortunately, there was no email address provided to help clarify such questions. Having spent well over a week sculpting and fabricating this maquette and then having lost the opportunity to compete because of a misunderstanding was certainly a disappointment.

Up until then I never actively pursued the field of public art. However, this invitation to submit my proposal became a turning point in my career to focus more on such public art submissions. I came to realize that as a multi-disciplinary artist, in terms of styles and mediums, public art is actually right up my alley. Each project is uniquely different, site-specific, and requires the ability to adapt and collaborate. In hindsight I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from this experience.

Additional Thoughts:

In conclusion: Grow a thick skin. A rejection is not a defeat, the proposal just wasn't a good fit. Simply move on to the next opportunity.