Art in Roanoke Temporary Sculpture Exhibition: Reimagining Roanoke

The City of Roanoke is seeking at least eight artists or artist teams to exhibit sculpture in the sixth Art in Roanoke (AIR) temporary sculpture exhibition running May 17, 2021 through April 14, 2023. Submissions are accepted through January 18, 2021 at 11:59 PM Eastern for freestanding sculpture responding to the theme "A New Life: Reimagining Roanoke." This invitation is extended to all artists 18 and older. Regional artists and teams with connections to Roanoke are encouraged to apply. Both proposed work and finished pieces will be considered. Women and artists of color are especially encouraged to submit proposals.

Artwork may incorporate interactive and functional elements but must include at least 50% repurposed material. Works must be of a scale and material suitable for outdoor display, designed to withstand an outdoor, high traffic, unmonitored environment, requiring little or no maintenance for the duration of the show, original, suitable for family viewing, and constructed so that they can be securely anchored. The Art Walk includes ten pads, each 6' by 6' and capable of holding up to 1,500 lbs. Work cannot be over 15' tall or 6' wide. Anchor bolts are required and must be set at least six inches from the edges of the pads. Locations include concrete pads on the Elmwood Park Artwalk, with potential for additional works in neighborhood and community spaces.

Artists chosen to participate will receive a stipend of up to $4,000 per selected artwork. There is no entry fee. Costs associated with transportation, travel, insurance during travel and installation, installation, and removal are the responsibility of the artist. The city will provide pads and installation support as feasible. Completed installation must pass city inspection, meeting all safety requirements. Artists whose projects are accepted will be required to sign a loan agreement. Works will not be insured by the city but may be self-insured by the artist. Each artist may submit up to 3 proposed sculptures or concepts for consideration, including up to 2 additional detail images per sculpture for a maximum of 10 images. Chosen artists will be notified no later than February 19, 2021. Installation must be completed by Monday, May 17, 2021, with scheduling available up to two weeks before that date. Works are to be picked up after April 14, 2023.