New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center Artwork Call to Artists

On behalf of The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (MCCNO), Dumez Development Group invites artists to submit 2-D and 3-D artwork for consideration for the interior renovation of the Convention Center. MCCNO is the largest contiguous-space exhibit hall in the United States, with 3 million sq. ft. of prime exhibit space. With its ongoing renovation as part of its Capital Improvements Plan, MCCNO seeks to transform its spaces to reflect Louisiana's shared cultural identity. The design goal is to create a historic context story rooted in the relationship of New Orleans and the Mississippi River, promote connection to community, and find moments of intersection, opportunity and impact.

This project seeks to identify and amplify diverse artists' voices, including both seasoned and emerging talent representing a wide spectrum of the community. Artists are invited to produce site-specific works that will complement the design vision. Proposals for commissioned works should correspond with a specific site within the provided site plan. A virtual tour and site plan with images and elevations are available to provide scale reference. In-person tours of the facility will be part of the next phase of the selection process.

Application Requirements: Artist CV, Artist Statement, Narrative Statement (for existing work) or Commission Proposal (for proposed works), high-resolution images (1-10 images, 0-2 videos, 1-12 total samples maximum), concept ideas or renderings, and portfolio. Images must include medium, dimensions, year of completion, price, and primary discipline/media. Sculpture must be suspended or wall-mounted; no floorspace allocation for sculpture in this phase. Eligibility: Artists must have a demonstrable connection to Louisiana through residence, birthplace, artistic practice, significant body of work, or exhibition history. All artists must have professional representation. All artwork must be completed, delivered, and ready to hang, equipped with cleats or D-rings where applicable. Proposed budgets must account for all costs including materials, fabrication, transportation, and installation. Jury dates: 2/7/26 - 3/13/26.