Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA) 

Budget for acquisition of artwork: $19,000 

Application deadline: Nov. 17, 2025, at 11:59PM (EST)

Eligibility: Rhode Island residents only

Artwork for the RI DMV Safety and Emissions Facility will be commissioned by RISCA and RI DMV through Rhode Island’s Public Art Law, which mandates that 1% of all state capital construction and renovation funds be allocated to the acquisition of works of art to be placed in public places constructed. Through this program, the State recognizes that “public art creates a more humane environment: one of distinction, enjoyment, and pride for all citizens.”

Our mission is to serve the public by upholding all Rhode Island Motor Vehicle Safety and Emission Control Laws and Regulations with consistency and fairness. We work to protect public safety, safeguard health, and maintain order on our roads. We are equally committed to helping customers understand and meet these requirements. We strive to make compliance a positive and straightforward experience by providing clear info, efficient processes, and courteous service.

About the DMV Safety & Emissions Facility

The new Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles Safety and Emissions Facility, being built in Cranston, will serve as the central site for all state vehicle safety and emissions inspections. The facility will conduct biannual inspections of approximately 1,500 school buses, as well as limousines, taxis, and non-emergency medical transport vehicles. It also will perform public challenge inspections when safety concerns are reported. Staff at this location will play a vital role in protecting public safety, maintaining health standards, and ensuring compliance with Rhode Island Motor Vehicle Safety and Emission Control Laws.

The new facility replaces the former DMV inspection station in Providence, which was severely damaged by flooding in 2022. The modernized building will reunite staff, provide a safer and more functional work environment, and better reflect the pride employees take in their service to Rhode Islanders. The waiting area will welcome a steady flow of visitors from across the state, representing a diverse cross-section of the community. Substantial completion of the building is expected in early September 2026, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for October 2026.

About this Call

Members of the selection panel met onsite to review plans for the new DMV Safety and Emissions Facility in Cranston.  The new building, purpose-built for DMV,  to provide a safer, more efficient workspace for staff and a welcoming environment for the public.

The panel prioritized the interior for placement of artwork, with the primary focus on the public waiting room.  There is an option to include the restroom’s foyer and conference room. Due to the facility’s layout selected pieces will be wall-hung or mural-based installations that can be removed or relocated if necessary. All artwork should be durable, low-maintenance, and appropriate for a high-traffic public setting.

The panel noted that artwork could help create a welcoming and uplifting atmosphere for both employees and visitors. Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from the facility’s commitment to safety, fairness, and service to the Rhode Island community.

The panel established the following:

Additionally, panelists noted: 

ESTIMATED TIMELINE:

Oct. 15, 2025: Application opens.

Nov. 17, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. (E.S.T.): Deadline for submissions

Dec. 2025: Panel meeting for review and selection of semifinalists.

Winter 2026: Finalist site visits.

Winter 2026: Finalist presentations to selection panel; work selected.

March 2026: Final approval by RISCA’s Council and DMV.

TBD with artist: Contract signed. Work fabricated, installed, and completed.