Arts Park Summer Sculpture Contest

This opportunity is open to Wisconsin artists only. Existing sculptures as well as sculpture proposals will be accepted. Finished artwork must be available for installation by April 2016.

Two locations are available. The Southeast Field location is near the edge of a field with expansive views and a backdrop of 40' mature trees. It is highly visible from a distance and situated along a well-traveled hiking and biking trail. A $4,500 stipend is offered for a three-year commitment. The North Woods location is on the north side of the building near a wooded area, along a hiking and biking trail and heavily used entrance to the Gerlach Outdoor Theatre. A $3,000 stipend is offered for a two-year commitment. All artwork should have a strong relationship with nature and be appropriate in scale and theme with the location. The organization has a strong desire for sculpture that is interactive, kinetic, or sonic in nature. Artwork must be durable, require limited maintenance, and be suitable for Wisconsin outdoor weather conditions and public interaction. Both locations are windy.

Submissions of existing works should include up to 6 images with artwork title, materials, dimensions, price/value, and year created. Proposed works may be submitted as sketches along with examples demonstrating artistry and finished quality. Applicants must submit a 1-2 page CV highlighting commissioned works, public projects, and/or exhibitions. Submissions must include a statement addressing how the piece relates to the natural environment, potential educational uses, functional or performance aspects (sound, motion, light, or other media), and installation, maintenance, and upkeep requirements. Work sample requirements: 2-6 images, 0-1 audio file, 0-1 video file. Up to 3 finalists will be chosen and must provide a representation of the sculpture (photography, digital animation, video, or maquette) for public input. Stipends cover artist expenses including temporary lease, transportation, food and lodging, and artist fees for on-site availability during installation and de-installation. Selected artists are responsible for transportation, installation assistance, maintenance, and public engagement. The Wilson Center provides logistical support, site design parameters, site preparation, physical installation, promotional materials, and General Liability Insurance. Artists are responsible for negotiating and selling sculptures and must pay the Wilson Center 20% of any sale while on exhibit or within six months thereafter. Deadline for submission: August 31, 2015. Finalists chosen by September 26, 2015. Representations due December 11, 2015. Public input during January and February 2016. Installation by May 2016.