The Avenue Concept: Call for Public Art Sculpture 2022

The Avenue Concept invites submissions of dynamic outdoor sculptures for display in Downtown Providence, Rhode Island. This opportunity seeks contemporary sculpture that already exists and is ready for installation, to lease for one year with the possibility of extending the lease agreement.

The program includes 5 total sculpture sites throughout downtown: 3 large scale artwork sites and 2 smaller scale sites. Larger artworks in the 14' to 25'+ height range are encouraged, as well as human scale pieces (5' to 14'). Artwork should have a footprint and anchor pattern that fits within a 6' x 6' square, though larger footprints can be considered with a comprehensive anchor and securing plan. Sculptures must be built in a durable, stable fashion, able to withstand 4 seasons of outdoor display in New England, including extreme temperatures, high winds, rain, hail and snow. Artwork must be fully completed and installation ready at the time of application, with no further labor needed for cleaning, patina work, paint touch-up, or additional fabricated elements.

This opportunity is open to all emerging and established sculpture artists within 200 miles of Providence, RI, including Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and portions of Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire and New York. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ artists are encouraged to apply. Artists whose work is selected will receive a lease payment of $2,000. The Avenue Concept will handle transportation, installation, and removal of artwork, and will carry liability insurance for these services. Selected artworks will be featured on informational plaques with QR codes, included in the Avenue Concept's digital archive and self-guided tour app, promoted through the organization's website and social media, and featured in Providence's art map and walking tours. Unless otherwise indicated, artwork is available for purchase, with The Avenue Concept taking a 30% commission and the artist receiving 70% of the sale price. Artwork selection notifications will be made by early March 2022, with pickup and installation occurring between spring and early summer 2022.