2025 Deschutes Public Library Seeks Artists for District Collection

Deschutes Public Library is seeking artists to build a roster for its district-wide art collection. The library system is undergoing renovation and new construction across six branches in Central Oregon, including a new 100,000 square foot library in east Bend (Stevens Ranch), a new branch in Redmond, and renovated libraries in La Pine, Sunriver, Sisters, and historic downtown Bend. The project is funded by a voter-approved bond measure, with 1% of brick and mortar costs reserved for art acquisition. Renovation and construction is scheduled to conclude spring of 2027.

The total project budget for art is just under $1.5 million for the county-wide library system, with budgets per branch ranging from $30,000 to $900,000. A fundraising campaign will nearly match the amount funded by the 1% program. The Deschutes Public Library Art Committee, comprised of local artists, a project architect, and community advocates, will make recommendations to library administration for final approval. The Art Committee seeks diverse, inclusive, and inspirational works in all media and genres including painting, printmaking, sculpture, glass, fiber, functional, digital, photography, installation, and mixed media. Works will be displayed in expected and unexpected places throughout the buildings and on library grounds.

Artists who respond to this call will be considered for inclusion in the Deschutes Public Artists Library Artist Roster. Pre-qualified artists will be invited to submit proposals for specific artwork commissions in one or more library branches. Up to five finalists per commission will be invited to submit a formal proposal and will receive up to $1,000 honorarium for a written proposal, online presentation, and digital rendering. Finalists may also receive an additional stipend to offset travel expenses on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must submit 5-7 labeled images (title, medium/media, date, dimensions, estimated value) and a resume including state of residence and education/experience. No entry fee required. Only artists residing in Western United States (Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming) may apply, with special consideration given to Oregon artists.