Theatre in the Park Temporary Art Project

Johnson County Park & Recreation District seeks an artist or artist team to design, fabricate, and install a temporary artwork at the entrance of Theatre in the Park, located within Shawnee Mission Park at 7710 Renner Road. Theatre in the Park is the largest outdoor community theatre in the country and welcomes over 32,000 attendees each summer. The temporary public art project will be unveiled during the 2022 Theatre in the Park season and commissioned to last for multiple weeks, positioned outside the TIP entrance gate to be accessible to both Theatre in the Park attendees and trail users.

The selected artist will be responsible for developing final design documents, executing the final design on schedule, managing all aspects of installation and deinstallation, maintaining effective communication with all parties, collaborating with JCPRD to develop an educational program related to the artwork, and participating in marketing and community outreach. Interactive sound elements should not be incorporated into the piece due to potential distraction during live performances. JCPRD planning staff will assist with lighting solutions needed to illuminate the artwork at night.

The project goals are to engage visitors with artwork that is fun, interactive, and/or participatory; create a sense of magic that can be enjoyed during daylight and evening hours; create a site-specific piece inspired by usage and visitation; and provide opportunities for local and regional artists. Eligibility is open to artists residing within 500 miles of the site, including emerging artists in collaboration with other artists. Up to three finalists will be selected to create concept proposals and will each receive a $500 stipend. Artists living more than 100 miles from Theatre in the Park will receive an additional amount up to $250 for travel and lodging expenses. The budget for this project is $10,000.