Art in Orbit 2026 Call for Outdoor Sculptures

The Town of Ashland's Public Art Commission invites artists to submit existing outdoor sculptures for consideration for the 2026 "Art in Orbit" on-loan sculpture program. This rotating public art initiative brings dynamic, engaging sculptures to the heart of our community. Selected pieces will be prominently displayed in high-traffic areas throughout Ashland's downtown and locations selected by Town staff.

Six sculptures will be chosen for the year-long outdoor exhibit that will be installed on April 14th, 2026 and remain for one year. Each selected artist will be awarded a $1,200 artwork loan contract. The artist is responsible for transportation and required to be onsite for installation. At the conclusion of the exhibition, the Public Art Commission may select a work to be purchased for inclusion in the Town of Ashland's permanent collection with a budget of $10,000 set aside for this purpose. A "People's Choice" vote will be held throughout the exhibition duration, with the winning sculptor receiving a $500 prize.

Each sculpture must be at least 4 feet in one dimension and fit on concrete bases measuring 4' x 4' x 6" tall. All sculptures must include a baseplate or flanges for secure bolting to the concrete base, with the artist providing all necessary mounting hardware. The sculpture must be completed before the submission deadline and withstand outdoor elements. Artists may submit up to 3 applications with one sculpture per application, but only one sculpture per artist is eligible for acceptance. Entry deadline is December 17th, 2025, with artist notification by February 2026.