Art of Community BIG ART Walking Tour - Hood River Outdoor Sculpture Gallery

The Art of Community BIG ART Walking Tour is seeking sculptures for its sixth exhibit. Up to 15 sculptures on loan from artists around the country will be placed around the downtown Hood River area for approximately two years. Hood River, located along the Columbia River Gorge within a designated National Scenic Area, attracts thousands of visitors annually through events including the Blossom Festival, Pacific Northwest Plein Air, Hood River Hops Fest, Hood River Valley Harvest Festival, Wine and Pear Festival, Gorge Artists Open Studio Tour, and Northwest Exposure Wine Weekend.

Artwork must be a minimum of 48 inches tall and designed for long-term outdoor durability and ease of maintenance, including strong wind resistance. Sculptures taller than 11 feet require certified engineer approval. Two-dimensional works are encouraged. Artists are responsible for transporting, installing, and removing their work. Selected artists will receive a $500 stipend upon receipt of artwork and an additional $500 at pickup. Work will be professionally photographed and featured in 20,000 Walking Tour Maps distributed throughout the Pacific Northwest. Temporary plaques with artist information will accompany each installation. Displayed works will be offered for sale with Art of Community receiving a 20% commission.

Submissions should include two or more digital images from front and back viewpoints showing size, scale, and installation requirements. Selection criteria include artistic quality, site compatibility, material suitability, safety, environmental impact, and feasibility. The project is open to all artists regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, or physical or mental disability. Artist teams are eligible to apply.