Mathews-Sanders 11th Biennial Outdoor Sculpture Competition

The Mathews-Sanders Sculpture Garden in Cleveland, Mississippi, is seeking submissions for the 11th Biennial Outdoor Sculpture Competition. Selected works will be exhibited on the grounds of the Bologna Performing Arts Center on the campus of Delta State University, the Grammy Mississippi Museum, and downtown in the city of Cleveland. The competition anticipates selecting twelve works: eight sculptures at the BPAC, three sculptures downtown, and one sculpture at the Grammy Mississippi Museum.

The call is open to all artists and artist teams, age 18 and over, using durable materials suitable for outdoor elements and temperature changes that require little to no maintenance during the display period. Sculptures of all types are welcome, with preference given to artworks with a musical theme at the Grammy Museum and downtown Cleveland. Works must be six to fifteen feet in height. Selected works will be on exhibition from August 9, 2024 to August 9, 2026. At the end of the exhibition period, a purchase award will be granted for one sculpture, which will remain in the sculpture garden as part of the permanent collection.

Artists may submit up to nine digital images of sculpture (minimum 300 dpi, jpeg format) with two views of each work. Submissions must include an identification sheet with title, medium, dimensions (h x w x d), exact footprint dimensions, purchase price, and a statement of long-term upkeep addressing maintenance of surfaces, potential costs, and equipment needed. A resume and artist statement are also required. Each artist exhibiting sculpture will receive a $2,500.00 honorarium per sculpture, which includes transportation, installation, and de-installation. Entry deadline: May 4. Notification: June 3. Installation: August 9.