Circle Drive Sculpture Contest

The Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts seeks to commission an artist to create an exterior work of art for the Circle Drive entrance. The Circle Drive sculpture will be the inaugural piece commissioned as part of the ArtsPark initiative – the Center's plan to extend the arts beyond the walls of the Center uniting nature and art in inspiring ways for visitors.

This commission is open to Wisconsin artists. Existing sculptures as well as sculpture proposals will be accepted. Artwork should be harmonious with the nature of the surroundings as well as the architecture of the building. Artwork must be suitable for Wisconsin outdoor weather conditions and interaction with the general public. The location is windy, exposed to all elements, surrounded by prairie, but close to water, wetlands and woodlands. The sculpture will be placed in the center of a traffic entry circle of approximately 72'6" diameter at the main entrance of the building (building height ~40'). The intended location is highly visible, even from a distance, so the sculpture should be prominent and proportionate to its surroundings.

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 of other work demonstrating artistry, proficiency and finished quality. Applicants should submit a 1-2 page C.V. highlighting other commissioned works, public projects, and/or exhibitions. Submission should include a Project Proposal addressing how the piece relates to the Wilson Center's mission and core values, the natural environment, educational potential, any functional or performance aspects (sound, motion, light, or other media elements), and installation requirements, maintenance considerations, and upkeep necessary for the life of the work. This piece is intended to be permanent.

Up to 5 finalists will be chosen and provided with an honorarium to create a movable, table-top maquette to be presented to the community for public input. The SLWCA has budgeted as much as $45,000 for the final sculpture including design, materials, transportation and installation. Finalists chosen by February 13, 2015. Maquettes due May 11, 2015. Public voting during June and July of 2015. Installation by March 2016.