2025-26 Downtown Sculpture Gallery - City of Auburn, WA

The City of Auburn invites sculptors to submit applications for Auburn's Downtown Sculpture Gallery. The works selected for this public art exhibition will be on loan to the City for twelve months (September 2025 – September 2026) and can 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 select work(s) to be purchased 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 throughout the exhibition, with the winning sculptor receiving a $500 prize.

Artists must be living or working in the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, California, and Montana). Applicants may submit up to ten sculptures for consideration. 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 and the general public. Existing sculptures and artwork proposals (submitted as sketches/illustrations) are accepted. The City of Auburn will provide signage to identify the artwork, feature it on the City website, and include it in a promotional brochure. Artists are responsible for transportation and installation of their artwork. The City will insure the artwork while on display but not during installation/deinstallation. Artists are responsible for repairs needed due to build quality during the exhibition.

The Downtown Sculpture Gallery showcases 12+ sculptures throughout Auburn's historic downtown. Artwork will be located on pedestals with specific design parameters depending on placement. Five pedestals are on the sidewalk and require artwork no wider than 3'8" from base to 7' in height and 5' maximum width from 7' to 12' in height, with a maximum weight of 5,000 lbs. Other pedestals are in planter boxes or flush concrete pads with varying dimensions. Artists must demonstrate that selected artwork will be sound, safe, and suitable for exhibition in the public realm. Application deadline: March 17, 2025 at 10:59 PM Pacific Time. For inquiries, contact Allison Hyde, Arts Program Supervisor: [email protected], 253-804-5043.