2020-21 Downtown Sculpture Gallery

The City of Auburn invites sculptors to submit applications for the Downtown Sculpture Gallery, a public art exhibition showcasing ten sculptures throughout Auburn's historic downtown. Selected works will be on loan to the City for twelve months (September 2020 – September 2021) and may be available for sale during that time. Each selected artist will receive a $1,000 stipend. At the conclusion of the exhibition, the selection committee may purchase one or more works for inclusion in the City of Auburn's permanent collection with a budget of $10,000. A "People's Choice" vote will be held online and via printed ballots, with the winning sculptor receiving a $500 prize.

Artwork may be in any media and must be durable, suitable for outdoors, and able to withstand the elements as well as interaction with pedestrians. Both existing sculptures and artwork proposals are accepted; proposals can be submitted as sketches with examples of other work. Artwork will be located throughout Auburn's downtown with locations assigned by City staff. Sculptures can be welded or bolted onto steel plates attached to concrete pedestals. Artists are responsible for transportation and installation of their artwork, with some city assistance provided. The City will insure the artwork during display and provide signage and promotional materials.

Eligibility is open to professional artists or artist teams living or working in the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, California, and Montana). Applicants may submit up to five sculptures for consideration. Artwork specifications include design parameters based on pedestal location: five pedestals on the sidewalk require artwork no wider than 3' 8" from base to 7' height and no heavier than 5,000 lbs; other pedestals have varying dimensions. Artists must provide detailed installation instructions, demonstrate structural soundness and safety, and comply with all terms in the loan agreement. Artists are responsible for repairs due to build quality during the exhibition period. Application deadline: March 19, 2020 at 10:59 p.m. Pacific Time. Inquiries: [email protected] or 253-804-5043.