Artist Opportunity at the Central Coast Zoo RFQ Packet

The City of Atascadero and the Central Coast Zoo are excited to launch a new Qualified Artist Opportunity beginning November 2026. This new pilot program is designed to showcase the creativity and talent of local artists while bringing unique, Zoo-inspired artwork to our visitors and our community.

We are looking for a local artist who enjoys creating artwork featuring animals and would like the opportunity to have their work showcased and sold in the Central Coast Zoo Gift Shop. The artist would supply items to be sold in the Zoo Gift Shop for re-sale. Selected artwork may be featured on a variety of retail products, including greeting cards, writing pads, magnets, posters, tote bags, drinkware and apparel and other gift shop merchandise.

One local artist will be selected to participate in this pilot program.

Interested artists must submit a proposal that includes:

• Artist information, qualifications, and relevant experience.
• Examples of original artwork representing the artist's style.
• Proposed artwork for consideration for the Central Coast Zoo Gift Shop. (Please note: Artwork needs to be of the zoo's specific individual animals and used as part of the artwork for the items sold in the gift shop).
• An assortment of proposed retail merchandise featuring the artists' artwork.
• A brief description of inspiration or concept behind the proposed artwork.
• Proposed wholesale pricing if applicable.

Artwork must feature or be inspired by animals within the Central Coast Zoo's animal population and be professionally produced and appropriate for a family-friendly Zoo environment. AI generated artwork will not be accepted.

The selected artist will work with the City of Atascadero and Central Coast Zoo to determine which artwork and merchandise are appropriate for the Gift Shop.

All artwork and proposed merchandise must receive approval from the City/Zoo prior to production and sale.

The artist supplies the items to be sold in the Zoo Gift Shop for re-sale.

The Zoo will pay for the agreed merchandise at the wholesale rate provided by the Artist for resale in the Gift Shop.

Proposals can be sent electronically, in person or via mail. They must be received no later than **5:00 PM on Friday, November 6, 2026**. Submissions received after the deadline may not be considered.

All submissions will be reviewed after 5:00 PM on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. The results of the selection will be emailed to participating artists.

Selection Process

Proposals may be evaluated based on:

• Quality and originality of artwork.
• Creativity and artistic style.
• Relevance to the Central Coast Zoo and its animal population.
• Ability of the artwork to translate effectively to retail merchandise.
• Quality and variety of proposed merchandise.
• Professional experience and qualifications.
• Overall fit with the vision and family-friendly environment of the Central Coast Zoo.
• Local or regional connection.

Priority will be given to qualified local and regional artists.

The selected artist will also be required to maintain any applicable business license and seller's permit required by federal, state, county, or local law. Liability insurance requirements are generally outlined as follows: Limits no less than **$1,000,000** per occurrence in General Liability Insurance, naming the City Additionally Insured by endorsement.