Exhaale!: Art in the Park, Worcester 2021

Art in the Park, Worcester is a juried public art exhibition dedicated to making public art accessible to all. Since 2008, a volunteer committee of cultural arts presenters, sculptors, and community supporters has presented this exhibition in partnership with the Arts and Business Council of Boston and the City of Worcester's Parks Department. The exhibit was recognized with the Gold Star Award in 2009 by the Massachusetts Cultural Council and received the Gateway Cities' Innovation award in 2017.

The primary exhibition takes place in Elm Park, a twenty-acre National Registry public park featuring Olmsted-designed and inspired elements, including meandering paths, three interconnected ponds, two arched bridges, a boathouse, and playground. Four sculptures or installations will also be selected for display at Anna Maria College in Paxton, MA, with additional sites potentially including Worcester Academy and UMASS Medical University. Artists may submit up to three existing or proposed site-specific sculptures. Panelists include Ling-Wen Tsai (Chair, Sculpture Department, Maine College of Art), Willie Cole (American sculptor and conceptual artist), and Samuel Adams (Curator, deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum). Selection will be based on quality, design, durability, scale, suitability for outdoor environment, safety, and stable mounting.

Exhibitors will receive an $800.00 stipend to show at Elm Park (one per artist regardless of number of pieces accepted). Additional stipends at other sites range from $400.00 to $700.00. Artists are encouraged to offer work for sale; if a sale occurs during the exhibition or related shows, 30% of the sale price is payable to Art in the Park, Worcester. Entry fee is $20.00. Applicants must submit 3-12 images, a drawing with key and scale information, and a description of the proposed work and materials. Preference is given to work produced within the past three years. All work must be the property of the artist and suitable for outdoor installation and extended weather exposure. Sharp, pointed pieces below 4 feet should be avoided. Installation dates are August 10 & 12, 2021, with exhibition opening August 15, 2021. Removal from Elm Park is December 2 & 7, 2021; removal from Anna Maria College is May 2022.