Shape of Community

The Shape of Community is a citywide, temporary sculpture exhibition featuring large-scale works of art in prominent areas throughout O'Fallon's public parks and communal spaces. Selected artists will loan their sculptures for an 18-month period (August 2018 to March 2020). The exhibition aims to enliven public spaces, encourage exploration of the city, engage residents and visitors, and provide a unique venue for sculptors in the region.

Selected artists will receive a $2,000 stipend paid in pre-arranged installments throughout the 18-month exhibition period. This compensation must cover all related costs, including installation materials, travel costs for delivery and pick-up, and insurance fees. Artists are responsible for providing hardware and installation instructions, delivering the sculpture to the site on a predetermined date with a representative present during installation, insuring the artwork for property loss, and transporting the artwork from the site at the end of the exhibition. Artwork may be available for sale while on display, but must remain in place for the duration of the exhibit.

Submissions must include 1-3 images of original work. Selection criteria include alignment with project goals, high artistic merit and creativity, appropriate scale for outdoor visibility, quality construction using durable materials suitable for long-term outdoor display, and ability to engage the public. Technical requirements include: maximum weight of 5,000 lbs, maximum height of 15 feet, fit within 4'x4' or 6'x6' concrete pads, suitability for outdoor conditions including wind, rain, extreme heat, snow and freezing, maintenance-free operation, safety for the general public including children, ability to withstand water around the base, secure anchoring to concrete pads with bolts provided by the artist, and ground-mounted works only. Vertical sculptures are preferred. The Cultural Arts Commission will select eight works and up to four alternatives, with no more than one work per artist. Selections will be reviewed by the O'Fallon Convention and Visitors Bureau and approved by O'Fallon City Council.