We’re seeking proposals from individuals, groups or organizations to launch a pilot program in Pioneer Square and the Chinatown-International District to provide relocation and placement services for artists seeking affordable studio or live/work space.

The deadline for submitting a proposal is 5 p.m., Friday, Sept. 30. Proposal budgets should not exceed $10,000. The RFP is available online here.

The Artist Space Assistance Pilot Program is designed to keep artists in Pioneer Square – a historic cultural district and home to the First Thursday Art Walk – and the surrounding area.

“This pilot program grew out of business and community concerns related to the loss of artist studio space in the neighborhood due to the Oct. 1 closure of the 619 Western Building,” said Vincent Kitch, director of the Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs. “619 was home to more than 100 artist studios and has been an important cultural presence in Pioneer Square for more than three decades. The dilemma of the Western Building reinforces the importance of this work, which could provide a cultural space model for other neighborhoods in the future.”

The selected consultant will determine artists’ need for space, identify and publicize arts space opportunities in Pioneer Square and the Chinatown-International District and provide relocation and placement services for artists. The pilot program will run from October through December 2011 and may extend longer.