Newport Beach Civic Center Sculpture Exhibition - Phase IX

The City of Newport Beach announces a call for entries for Phase IX of its ongoing Sculpture Exhibition at Civic Center Park. Up to ten artworks may be selected and showcased for two years in the 14-acre, ocean-view site specially designed by renowned landscape architect Peter Walker as an intended sculpture garden. The Civic Center is the heart of Newport Beach, home to City Hall, administrative offices, and the Central Library building. The park welcomes residents and visitors year-round for free concerts, art shows, docent-led sculpture tours, and leisurely trail walks.

The Sculpture Exhibition transforms Civic Center Park into a "museum without walls," with new contemporary works rotating through. Artists, private collectors, galleries, and museums/non-profit institutions are invited to submit artworks for installation from June 2024 to June 2026. Applicants must be over 18 years old. Submitted works must be complete, installation-ready, and physically located in the United States at the time of submission. Artworks must be available for delivery during June 10-27, 2024, and retrieved in June 2026.

The City seeks a well-balanced exhibit emphasizing variety in styles, types, and sizes with a diverse pool of artists. Selection criteria include artistic merit, durability for coastal Southern California conditions, and site responsiveness. Artwork must be original, suitable for all ages, and viewable from all angles. High-quality materials must withstand natural elements for a minimum of two years with minimal maintenance. Applicants should submit 2-4 high-quality images, a 25-word maximum artwork description, detailed materials and dimensions, previous exhibition history, relevant public art experience, and a preliminary budget not exceeding the $5,000 honorarium (which covers transportation, insurance, and artist's fee). A resume/CV of no more than two pages is required.