Uptown Marion's Central Plaza - Signature Sculpture Artist Call

Marion, Iowa is seeking a signature sculpture for the Central Plaza, a new community gathering space in the heart of Uptown Marion. The sculpture will be located in the northeast corner near 7th Avenue, in an area roughly 12 feet in diameter with 360° visibility. Annual average daily traffic counts in the area were near 13,000 in 2017, with traffic increasing steadily due to recent infrastructure improvements.

The Central Plaza will feature areas for live performances, public seating, water features, interactive sculptural play equipment, an ice-skating loop, and festival lighting. Artists are encouraged to create a signature piece that embodies Marion's spirit and "reach higher" motto while considering interactive elements using light, movement, or playfulness. The sculpture must be a permanent outdoor installation fabricated from highly durable, low-maintenance materials suitable for Iowa's weather and potential vandalism. A minimum height of 8 feet from grade is required for any part extending beyond the 12-foot diameter area. Lighting is encouraged but must not flash, scroll, or emulate traffic control devices. The artist is responsible for providing engineer-signed structural plans and footings.

The budget is $60,000, covering all design, fabrication, transportation, installation, and professional service costs. Three to five finalists will be selected and receive a stipend to develop proposals. Applications must include an artist statement, statement of interest, conceptual approach, up to six images or videos of previous outdoor public art installations, and three professional references. The project is open to professional artists at least 18 years old residing in the United States, with preference given to artists with ties to Eastern Iowa or Colorado. The deadline for artist submissions is May 31, 2024. Finalist notification is expected mid-June 2024, with finalist proposals due early August 2024 and artist selection in early September 2024.