Bermuda is in line to join some of the world’s most iconic signs like the giant Hollywood over Los Angeles or the “I amsterdam” sign in the Netherlands.

The City of Hamilton has asked island artists, community groups and members of the public to take part in a contest to design a free-standing six feet by 35 feet “Bermuda” marquee sign – with a prize of $3,000 for the winning design.

A spokeswoman for the city said contest was for the design element only, not for the construction or installation of the art.

She added the corporation was looking into responsible construction options appropriate for the scope of the project.

The spokeswoman said a location for the sign had still to be chosen.

Jessica Astwood, the city’s director of marketing and communications, said: “For 2021, the City of Hamilton is continuing the Vivid: Public Art Initiative, with a focus on very pointed projects, one being this large scale “Bermuda” marquee sign.

“With this project, we wanted to create an iconic sign that people would be drawn to and want to engage with – one that would also celebrate the local arts community and Bermudian culture.”

The spokeswoman added that a Bermuda sign, rather than one to publicise Hamilton, was picked because it would have more impact.

She said: “In the absence of a sign such as this one anywhere on the island, the city felt that a ‘Bermuda’ sign will not only assist in “placemaking” in a public city location, but it will become an attraction with a broader appeal.

She added there were several design specifications for this project including:

· The design must be for a free-standing “Bermuda” marquee sign.

· The dimensions for the installation are six feet high, 35 feet wide, three feet deep – but were subject to change depending on the selected design and plan for construction.

· The proposed design must enhance the city environment and inspire engagement with residents and visitors to the island.

· The proposed design must tie-in the heritage of the City of Hamilton and reference Bermuda culture to foster a sense of community pride.

· An interactive or functional element is preferred, but not required.

· The design must be appropriate for visitors of all ages.

The contest deadline is April 30 at 5pm and the winning design will be announced on May 18.

Designs can be illustrated digitally, sketched, collaged or painted.

But all must formatted for digital translation for construction.

Individuals can submit more than one design and the contest is open to all ages.

Individual and group or association proposals – for example, from schools – are also eligible.

Entries will be reviewed by the Vivid: Public Art Initiative committee, made up of representatives of the City of Hamilton as well as industry experts.

The winner will be selected based on criteria in line with the City’s mandate, set out on the City of Hamilton website at www.cityofhamilton.bm.

For full contest details, visit https://www.cityofhamilton.bm/news/marquee_sign_design_contest.php