Dallas Zoo Public Art Call for Entry

The Dallas Zoo, a 106-acre zoo located 3 miles south of downtown Dallas, Texas, is seeking artists for a public art project. Established in 1888, it is the oldest and largest zoological park in Texas and home to over 2,000 animals representing 406 species.

A panel of arts professionals and community representatives will review qualified submissions. Short-listed artists will be contracted to develop a site-specific concept for artwork and will each receive a $3,000 stipend to cover all costs of site visits, site research, production of a site-specific public art concept, shipping of maquettes (where applicable), and travel to present the proposal to the selection panel. The project budget is $262,000.

The artwork must include visual references to the Zoo and wildlife, support the Dallas Zoo's mission of "Inspiring Passion for Nature and Conserving Wildlife," and serve as a gateway and way-finding element welcoming visitors to the entrance. The site is 150ft X 100ft with no height restrictions. Artwork must complement existing artwork at the site, be highly visible in the landscape, require little or no maintenance, and be free of safety hazards. Movement and interactive qualities can be considered, as can land form elements.

Eligibility: All artists may apply except those currently under contract with the City of Dallas Public Art Program, City of Dallas employees and their families, members of the Public Art Committee or Cultural Affairs Commission and their families, project consultants, and undergraduate students. Applicants must demonstrate successful completion of public art or park projects of similar size and scope, ability to work with design and construction teams, ability to complete work on time and on budget, and ability to attend meetings (participation by phone is acceptable). Submit 1-6 images. Contact: [email protected] or 214.670.3284.