Theatre in the Park Temporary Public Art Project 2023

Johnson County Park & Recreation District (JCPRD) is commissioning a site-specific temporary public artwork for Theatre in the Park at Shawnee Mission Park. The installation will be placed at the front entrance of Theatre in the Park on a grassed surface and will be viewable and accessible by trail users and Theatre in the Park attendees. The artwork will be unveiled during the opening night of the Theatre in the Park season in early June and remain on display through the end of the outdoor production season in early August, at minimum, with an expected lifespan of at least 3 months and up to 10 months.

The goals for this temporary public art include engaging visitors with an artwork that is fun, interactive, and/or participatory; creating a sense of magic in the park that can be enjoyed during daylight and evening hours (artists are encouraged to incorporate lighting); creating a site-specific piece inspired by the usage and visitation; and providing opportunities for local and regional artists. Interactive sound elements should not be incorporated due to potential distraction during live performances. There is no defined height restriction for the installation, and anchoring into the ground is possible and encouraged.

The selected artist will be responsible for designing, fabricating, and installing the temporary artwork, including developing final design documents, managing all aspects of installation and deinstallation, working cooperatively with JCPRD staff and stakeholders, and collaborating with JCPRD to develop and lead one community engagement activity or educational program at no cost to the public. The Art Selection Committee will review artist qualifications and select up to 3 finalists, who will be paid a stipend to develop a site-specific concept proposal with renderings, narrative description, budget, and timeline. This opportunity is open to professional artists residing within 500 miles of Kansas City. A virtual open house will be held via Zoom on December 6 from 12:30–1:00 PM, and an optional pre-proposal site visit will be provided for selected finalists, with a travel stipend of up to $250 for artists living more than 60 miles from the site.