2023/2024 El Paseo Sculpture Exhibition

You are invited to apply for the El Paseo Sculpture Exhibition. El Paseo is the premier shopping district in Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley, located in southern California. The exhibition space consists of eighteen (18) lighted concrete pads located in the median along a one and one half mile stretch of prime retail. The artwork will remain on exhibition for approximately two (2) years, with installation tentatively planned for October - November 2022 and de-installation planned for October 2024. A $5,000 honorarium will be provided for each selected artwork. Participant is responsible for delivery and pick-up of artwork per scheduled date.

All sculptures must fit on one of the existing concrete pads. Sixteen (16) pads measure 84" x 84" with a usable corner-to-corner space of 67" x 67". One (1) pad measures 48" x 48" and one (1) measures 96" x 300" (8' x 25'). Sculptures should be no less than 8' and no more than 10' in height on their own inclusive of a base, with the exception of artwork being proposed for the 48" x 48" pad for which the artwork can only be a maximum of 5' tall. A few pads can accommodate sculptures up to 13'. Sculptures should weigh no more than 3,000 pounds and be suitable for viewing from all angles. All sculptures must be designed with tabs or other devices that can be utilized to easily secure the artwork to the concrete pads. Pads may not be altered in any way to accommodate the artwork. Artworks must be constructed of durable materials that are able to withstand the harsh weather conditions of the desert (high winds and extreme temperatures). Sculptures must comply with all appropriate engineering requirements. Electricity for the sculpture itself is not available on site; if the sculpture requires electricity, it is suggested that it include a solar component.

Artwork may be sold during the exhibition, but must remain onsite throughout the duration of the exhibition. The City does not take a commission for the sale of the artwork. The City of Palm Desert will provide installation and de-installation of the artworks, exhibition advertising/signage, pads/lighting/maintenance, and onsite insurance. All artists, galleries, museums/non-profit arts organizations, and private collectors are encouraged to apply. Submit up to five (5) JPEG images of proposed sculpture, a description including materials and dimensions, a current resume or CV with contact information, and three (3) references. A maximum of two sculptures for consideration per artist (separate applications required).