A Call for Illinois Artists: Illinois State University Fine Arts Complex

The Art-in-Architecture Program of the Capital Development Board is seeking Illinois professional artists to create permanent original public art for the Illinois State University (ISU) Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts Complex in Normal, Illinois. The Committee is seeking an exterior artwork for the courtyard on the northside of the new Commons addition, which links the Visual Arts and Performing Arts Centers. The site-specific artwork will be situated within ISU's Fell Arboretum, directly in front of the Student Art Gallery.

Artists have approximately 1,045 square feet of space within the Commons courtyard to utilize for this exterior artwork. The artwork should draw inspiration from the cultural, historical, and environmental contexts of ISU, the Fine Arts Complex, and the Fell Arboretum. Community engagement is encouraged, though climbing or sitting on the work is not permitted. Opportunities for visual interaction, such as photography, are welcomed.

The budget for the artwork is $195,000, covering all expenses associated with completion and installation including project design, materials, fabrication, tools, project management, operations, meetings, travel, installation, licenses, insurance, contracted services, delivery to site, and documentation. Any expenses exceeding the contracted amount will be the artist's responsibility. The application deadline is March 3, 2026. For more information, contact the Art in Architecture Coordinator at [email protected] or 217-720-6118.