A quest has begun to create a bold and ambitious public artwork in time for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Artists are invited to submit proposals for works in Glasgow's east end, which will also feature contributions from the local community, leading to a "lasting legacy" for the Games.

The £300,000 commission is being created under public arts programme Velocity, a partnership between Glasgow Life, Glasgow City Council, Creative Scotland and Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company.

Velocity's aim is to encourage creative activity in communities, which reflects the impact of Glasgow 2014 through art.

The new permanent artwork, or installations, will be located near the Emirates Arena and community engagement is said to be central to the project.

Ben Spencer, producer of Velocity, said: "We are looking for a commission that will be bold and ambitious and helps to further reinforce Glasgow's reputation as an international leader in the arts.

"But more than that, we want this work to be part of a wider programme that helps to re-imagine, repair and reconnect an area of the city which has gone through years of disruption. Local people will be actively involved in the process so there is a sense of ownership and pride in the finished artwork.

"This is an exciting time for Glasgow and we want to connect that excitement to the passion and commitment of communities in the east of the city."

Deputy council leader Archie Graham is also chairman of Glasgow Life, a charitable company run by the local authority to help organise sporting and cultural events. He said: "The east end of Glasgow has been transformed in recent years, not least by the world-class sports facilities, such as the £113 million Emirates Arena.

"Now we are looking at how we can add to the rebirth of these communities through the commission of a world-class artwork which will be a fitting and lasting legacy for the people of Glasgow."

The application process closes in January. A shortlist will be drawn up by May and the art will be unveiled in the months leading up to the Games.