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SCULPTURE ON THE TOWN 2025

MORGANTON, NC

Deadline: January 31, 2025

About: Morganton is located in western North Carolina along the Catawba River in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Pisgah National Forest is nearby, and the area is abundant with scenic views and numerous outdoor adventure opportunities. It is within an hour’s drive of neighboring mountain towns like Boone and Blowing Rock, as well as the nationally renowned city of Asheville.

Project Background: Morganton cares deeply about the arts. Downtown’s lively performing arts roster includes formal and informal activities with a wide range of participating organizations and establishments, taking place in a wide variety of public and private spaces. Morganton’s investment in arts and culture is evident in its belief in and commitment to the fundamental role the arts play in building a community’s sense of place.
The Morganton Cultural Arts Commission (MCAC) is launching new strategies that identify Morganton’s creative community of artists, art stakeholders, and stewards. It provides educational programs highlighting public art as well as access to information in building grassroots support to ensure the implementation of policy recommendations. A top priority of the Morganton Cultural Arts Commission is to implement public art in public spaces. Hence the Call to Artists for large sculpture to be placed on 3 sites around town.

Scope of Work: This project aims to increase community interest for public art and to offer artists a unique opportunity to showcase their original sculptural works. Artwork shall be uplifting and creative. Other aspects to consider might be: how the art visually engages and creates a sense of discovery, surprise, boldness or intimacy; how it uses kinetic devices, dynamic shapes or colors; how it celebrates movement or whimsy; how the art celebrates Morganton.
A MAXIMUM OF TWO ENTRIES PER ARTIST MAY BE SUBMITTED FOR CONSIDERATION.
There are no fees for submittal.

SCHEDULE:

SEPTEMBER
Call to Artists, “first call”.
NOVEMBER
Call to Artists, “second call”.
JANUARY
Call to Artists, “last call”.
JANUARY
Submission Deadline – Submissions are due in hand by 5:00 pm on the
last Friday of January. Incomplete proposals will not be considered.
Time for staff to organize submials into a single presentation for
viewing and voting on by MCAC or other judges.
MARCH
Award Selection and Notification – The selection commiee will
review all complete proposals at their February meeting and be
approved by City Council at their March meeting. Award Notification
announced to all applicants will be the first week of March.
MARCH
Finalize Contracts – Artist contracts shall be finalized the first week of
March or an alternate artist may be chosen.
APRIL
Complete Installation – Sculptures shall be placed on a scheduled
week day between 8am-5pm between April 1st and April 15th.
FEBRUARY
Pick up Work – all work shall be scheduled and picked up the first two
weeks of February the following year. All sale transactions are
between the artist and buyer after the artist picks up work.

For Sculpture Specifications and Compensation and Submittal Form, see pdf

To see other MCAC
projects visit our website at
WWW.MORGANTON.ART
or follow us on instagram at
@MORGANTONCAC

Anderson Park Functional Art Installation

Deadline: December 31, 2024

Our Jackson Home, in partnership with the City of Jackson, is seeking proposals from artists or artist teams to create a functional art installation in an underutilized, high foot traffic sidewalk space of Anderson Park. The art should be installed on the sidewalks or on three existing twelve foot tall awnings, and must exclude seating. Use of the awnings in the installation is allowable, but relocation of the awnings is not allowable. This project aims to bring to life an underutilized space in the park and bring function and interaction to the area.

Functional aspects of this art installation could include, but are not limited to:

  • Shade

  • Table Tops

  • Play Features

  • Lighting

  • Wayfinding Sculpture

  • Sound Sculpture

  • Kinetic Sculpture

  • Environmental Art

The installation is permanent and will be expected to last for many years to come. The artist will be expected to submit a maintenance plan with their proposal and should consider the materials, durability, and construction of the piece that can withstand outdoor elements with minimal maintenance requirements. The piece should be accessible and safe for all those who interact with it.

For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.ourjacksonhome.com/public-art-projects

Call for U.S. Performers, Artists, and Speakers for Expo 2025 Osaka FAQs

Deadline: November 30, 2024

USA Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka; Seeking Cultural Performers and Expert Speakers

Meridian International Center and the United States (U.S.) Department of State’s International Expositions Unit (Expo Unit) are seeking U.S. Cultural Performers and Expert Speakers to perform and/or speak at the USA Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. This program is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State and is implemented by Meridian International Center. All travel and lodging expenses will be covered by the program. Cultural Performers and Expert Speakers should:

Embody the best and most authentic representation of American dance, music, theatre, literature, art, food, sport, and other aspects of American culture;
Collectively reflect the full cultural richness and diversity of the U.S.;
Attract the interest and engagement of Expo visitors through varied performances, workshops, lectures, panel discussions, master classes, and media engagements; and
Support U.S. public diplomacy goals to promote U.S. history, culture, and values in Japan and throughout the region.

For more information, visit: https://meridian.org/expo2025/

Guide to Applications
Frequently Asked Questions

AMP Mural Project

Deadline: November 22, 2024

Our Jackson Home, in partnership with the City of Jackson, is seeking proposals from artists or artist teams for a mural installation on the AMP building, to be installed on two walls; the brick and metal exterior staircase wall to the right of the AMP stage, and the teal cinder block wall immediately to the right facing the audience on a sloped hill.

The design of the mural should center around the theme of music, emphasizing Jackson as a hub of music and musical heritage in the state. Artists are encouraged to explore a wide range of musical themes and local music history. Overall, the design should reflect the good vibes and energy of the area, reflecting the AMP’s role in the community as a gathering place for live performances and community events.

Project Goals:

  • Beautification: Enhance the environmental and aesthetic appeal in this area of Jackson’s Arts District

  • Cultural Development: Reflect the AMP’s character, the surrounding environment, and the community it serves, enriching the identity of the already existing space to make it meaningful to those who use it

  • Inclusivity: Install public art that is reflective of the Jackson community’s diverse population and culture

  • Economic and Tourism Growth: Attract visitors to the AMP and surrounding downtown area

Wall Materials:
Brick, Cinderblock, Metal
No existing structures on the wall can be altered or removed for this installation.

For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.ourjacksonhome.com/public-art-projects

Sister Cities 2025 World Expo Youth Ambassador Application

Young Adults (19-26 year old) to serve as youth ambassadors for the USA Pavilion at the World EXPO

Deadline: October 15, 2024

Represent the United States of America at the USA Pavilion at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Japan

The Department of State Youth Ambassador, or Student Ambassador, program is a long-standing U.S Government exchange program which began in the 1950’s.  For decades, young Americans have served as docents or guides for USA Pavilions at International Expositions, or World’s Fairs.  The opportunity to engage with millions of visitors of all ages and backgrounds throughout the six-month Expo is a once in a lifetime experience.  Serving as the “Faces of America” is an important role at a World’s Fair as many of the visitors may have never met face-to-face with an American before.

Youth Ambassadors have embarked on internships and careers in foreign policy with various U.S. Government agencies, including the State Department, USAID, the Department of Agriculture and others, as well as careers in international business, event management,  and entrepreneurship.  Youth Ambassadors are considered U.S. government exchange alumni and become part of a 1 million+ community of exchange alumni with opportunities for continued grants and other programs.

We encourage you to apply for the program and hope to see you in Japan at Expo 2025 Osaka!

2025 Osaka Youth Ambassador Program

Call for work: National Juried Show, Knoxville Gallery

Deadline: September 29, 2024

Arrowmont seeks work for two one-month-long exhibitions in our Featured gallery space. A Penny in Your Pocket is a two-part exhibition. Part I will be in January, opening to the public on First Friday, January 3rd, and Part II will be on view in February beginning First Friday, February 7th. Carrying a penny in your pocket into the new year is alleged to bring good fortune and prosperity. We are interested in interpretations of what this means to you, as well as other superstitions that are meaningful in your life or practice. The works included in this exhibition will be kicking off the exhibitions for 2025, an auspicious start to the 2025 Arrowmont Gallery in Knoxville exhibition calendar.

The Knoxville Featured Gallery has 23 linear feet of wall space; a 16 linear feet glass wall in front of which work can be suspended, and about 320 square feet in which 3D work can be displayed. It is possible to suspend work from the ceiling. Work should not exceed 40 pounds and should fit through a standard-size door.

Please submit up to three pieces completed within the past five years and a short statement about the work, process and/or superstition for consideration. All media considered, including book arts, ceramics, drawing, fiber, glass, metal, painting, photography, printmaking, wood, mixed media, video, and installations. If a piece contains an electronic component, the artist must indicate if they can provide the necessary technological equipment for installation. All works must be original in design and made by the artist. Hobby kits and reproductions will not be accepted.

Accepted work must be available to be on display for the duration of the exhibition. Which month your accepted work will be exhibited will be determined by the juror and curatorial staff. Artists must be at least 18 years of age.

All entries must be submitted to SlideRoom, https://arrowmont.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/79055, by midnight on September 30, 2024. The entry fee is $25 for three works. Image files must be .jpg format. Video stills may be submitted for video; please include the video link within the description.

Prizes: 2 years of representation in the Knoxville Marketplace, the sales area in the Arrowmont Gallery in Knoxville for six selected artists.

Questions? Please email Heather F. Wetzel, Galleries & Collections Manager at hwetzel@arrowmont.org.

Dates:

Part I on view January 3 – February 2, 2025

Part II on view February 7 – March 2, 2025

 

Submissions Open July 1, 2024

Submission Deadline September 29, 2024

Notifications November 1, 2024

January Part I work shipped to arrive by Monday, December 16, 2024

Installation Thursday, January 2, 2025

First Friday, January 3, 2025

February Part II work shipped to arrive by Monday, January 20, 2025

Install Wednesday, February 2, 2025

First Friday, February 7, 2025

About the juror:

Rachel K. Garceau is a studio artist living and working in the Atlanta, GA area, and has been recognized as a 2015 Emerging Artist by the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts and one of 2017’s Women to Watch by the Georgia Committee of the National Museum of Women in the Arts. In 2013, Rachel completed the Core Fellowship at Penland School of Craft (NC) where she embarked on a two-year exploration of various methods and materials ranging from metal-smithing to shoe-making and ultimately fell in love with the magic of mold-making. Rachel now primarily utilizes the process of slip-casting porcelain forms to construct site-responsive installations. Her work is often born from a curiosity about an object or a place and a desire to come to a deeper understanding of it. Her current work seeks to intimately engage her audience in the materiality of porcelain and to observe their interactions with it. She has received residencies at Vendsyssel Kuntsmuseum (DK), Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts (TN), Haystack Mountain School of Crafts (ME), All Is Leaf (MA), and the Hambidge Center for Creative Arts and Sciences (GA) as well as commissions for public works by the City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs and FLUX projects. Her work has been shown nationally and internationally and has been published in Studio Potter, Ceramics Monthly, and NCECA Journal, and also appears in CAST: Art and Objects Made Using Humanity’s Most Transformational Process.

Call for Entries for 31st Arts in the Airport at McGhee Tyson Airport

Deadline: Sunday, September 8, 2024

KNOXVILLE – The Arts & Culture Alliance and Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority announce a call for entries for the 31st biannual Arts in the Airport at McGhee Tyson Airport, a juried exhibition developed to allow regional artists to compete and display work in the most visited site in the area. Approximately 40-45 fine art works encompassing all styles and genres from both emerging and established artists will comprise the exhibition in the secured area behind McGhee Tyson Airport’s security gate checkpoint from October 22, 2024 – April 2025. Prizes include $1,000 in cash awards.

Artists may find more information and an online entry form at www.knoxalliance.com/airport-entry.

The call for entries is open to all artists 18 years and older residing in the 33 counties of East Tennessee. There is no entry fee, however artists must be individual members of the Arts & Culture Alliance by the entry deadline, and membership is open to all.

Each artist may submit up to five entries which must be original works in the following categories: 2-D (painting, drawing, mixed media, printmaking, photography) and 3-D (sculpture of all media). Entries are juried by digital image only.

Juror: Also a practicing artist working in historic photographic processes, hand papermaking, and book arts, Heather F. Wetzel is currently the Galleries & Collections Manager at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Here she manages a robust exhibition schedule for four rotating galleries, including the Arrowmont Gallery in Knoxville, as well as the permanent collection which consists of over 1,000 works in a variety of arts and crafts media. She has held positions as the Director of the Meadows Museum of Art and Instructor of Art at Centenary College of Louisiana; Assistant Professor, Head of BFA and MFA Photography Programs at Memphis College of Art in Memphis; Senior Lecturer in the Art Department, and Book Arts Specialist at Logan Elm Press at The Ohio State University where she was the 2011-2012 Post MFA Fergus Family Fellow in Photography. She earned her Master of Arts & Humanities from Arcadia University in Glenside, Pennsylvania, and her Master of Fine Arts in Visual Studies from the Visual Studies Workshop in Rochester, New York. Before to coming to The Ohio State University, she completed the University of Iowa Center for the Book Graduate Certificate in Book Arts Technologies in 2011.

For more information, please contact Suzanne Cada at (865) 523-7543 or sc@knoxalliance.com.

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR MURAL PROJECT IN JOHNSON CITY, TN

DEADLINE: August 30, 2024 by 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)

SUBMISSION DETAILS: View the RFQ online at https://cms7files.revize.com/johnsoncity/rfpbid/RFQ%202024-33%20Buffalo%20Street%20%20Mural%20project.pdf.

SCOPE OF WORK: 
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR MURAL PROJECT IN JOHNSON CITY, TN
The Public Art Committee of Johnson City, TN is seeking qualifications from artists or art teams for the commission of a mural to be located at 700 Buffalo Street in downtown Johnson City.

ELIGIBILITY: This opportunity is open to all professional artists over the age of 18. Applicants must reside within the United States.

BUDGET: Up to three finalists will be selected to develop design concepts for this project. The total project budget for the selected commission is $27,000. Finalists will be paid a $500 honorarium for their designs. The selected artist(s) will be paid $25,500 for the commissioned work. The three finalists will be required to present their proposals to the Selection Committee via Zoom. The selected artist(s) will be responsible for own travel costs, materials, housing, and personal liability insurance when installing the mural. The selected artist(s) will also be responsible for applying an appropriate primer, UV sealant, and anti-graffiti coating to the walls/mural surface. The City of Johnson City will pressure wash the walls and attend to any necessary repairs prior to the installation.

QUESTIONS: Cheyenne Kumbhare ckumbhare@johnsoncitytn.org (423) 975-2706

ABOUT JOHNSON CITY
Johnson City, Tennessee is situated in the heart of the Mountain South and Blue Ridge foothills. Abounding in natural beauty and opportunities for recreation and adventure, the city has become a regionally and nationally prominent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In recent years, Johnson City has also begun to show off its considerable cultural assets, which range widely across the visual and performing arts. The city’s public art program has played a critical role in this development. For the last decade, the Johnson City Public Art Committee has been enhancing the distinctiveness and livability of the community through arts installations and annual events freely accessible to all.

At a population of 73,000 and counting, Johnson City is primed for tremendous opportunity as it cultivates its reputation as a regional leader in sustainable growth. Preserving our cultural and historical roots, evaluating present opportunities, and investing in a diverse future are at the forefront of this vibrant city.
Johnson City’s historic downtown district is an energetic hub of day-round activity and a major draw for locals and visitors alike. Downtown is home to an array of local restaurants, breweries, retailers, parks, public art, community events, and 360° mountain views. In the downtown area, the community values of honesty, authenticity, and meaningful connections are activated to welcome current, new, and potential residents and visitors.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Johnson City Public Art Committee has invested in several murals aimed at celebrating the community’s distinctive identity, rich cultural history, and reverence for our shared home in Northeast Tennessee. One of the most recent additions to the mural program highlights regional artists’ important and ongoing contributions to American music and craft. Continuing in this vein, the Committee is launching a new mural that will focus on our community’s dynamic tradition of oral and written literature and their vivid, vernacular forms of storytelling. The mural project encourages artists to explore the intersection of word and image through engagement with local poetry. A diverse selection of poems, composed by three different modern and contemporary poets local to the region, are provided for inspiration (included in “Appendix” section). Artists are free to work with any number of the poems that resonate with them. Visual responses to the poetic text do not need to be literal or illustrative. Artists are encouraged to borrow freely, even impressionistically, from the poems. Text may be incorporated into the composition, but this is not required. The Committee hopes that the resulting mural will resonate with the poetic legacy of our region, excite viewers’ imaginations, and foster pride in our community.

View the wall on Google street view: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1ojOjbZDiNPRaRa8thcr0paC4Jej25vc&usp=sharing (The wall is on the back of the building and faces a parking lot adjacent to Ashe St.)

The mural site is located on the back wall of a downtown business and faces a parking lot adjacent to Ashe Street. The site is located within the W. Walnut corridor, an area that is currently undergoing redevelopment. There is a fair amount of vehicular traffic at the mural site, though there is also frequent foot traffic. Foot traffic is likely to increase in the future as plans for redevelopment include pedestrian and bike-friendly components ranging from East Tennessee State University to downtown Johnson City.

The wall is painted brick and approximately 60’ x 30’ (view image above for detailed measurements). The top of the wall is tiered, starting at a higher elevation on the left side of the wall and dropping to a lower elevation on the right side. The mural will cover only the section of the wall outlined in yellow in the images above.

SELECTION CRITERIA
A Public Art Selection Committee will review the qualifications of applicant artists and make recommendations to the Johnson City Public Art Committee. The Selection Committee includes artists, arts advocates, curators, administrators, project partners, and other arts and community development specialists. Their selections will be based on the following criteria:
● Artistic excellence as demonstrated in 10 digital images of the artist(s) previous work
● Evidence of working in the mural field on large masonry surfaces
● Experience working on collaborative community projects
● Experience working on large scale projects
● Willingness to meet all contractual guidelines
● The use of content appropriate for all audiences

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
The selected artist must supply all required insurance documents and submit a general contract form prior to beginning work. The City of Johnson City will provide an Insurance Checklist detailing each required insurance item, including but not limited to a $1 million/occurrence general liability policy and additional insured endorsements for the City of Johnson City for both ongoing and completed operations.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

  • Completed submission form
  • Signed insurance checklist
  • The insurance checklist must be signed by either the artist’s insurance agent and the artist stating the policies currently held OR signed by the artist stating that he/she will obtain the required insurance policies if awarded the commission
  • Signed general contract form
  • Cover letter/letter of intent
  • Resume
  • 10 digital images of previous artwork
  • Combine images into one pdf file
  • Contact information for 3 professional references

Please note: Art teams must submit qualifications under the name of one lead artist. In the cover letter, the lead artist must indicate that they plan to work as part of a team and must list the names of the artist(s) within their team. Art teams shall submit at least 10 images of previous artwork, but they may submit up to 10 images for each team member if desired.
ANTICIPATED TIMELINE

  • Deadline for submissions: August 30, 2024 by 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time)
  • Notification of three finalists: September 20, 2024
  • Final design submission/presentation: October 21, 2024
  • Final artist selection: October 25, 2024

Please note: Installation of the mural will be scheduled in consultation with the selected artist. The preferred installation period is spring of 2025.

1858 Prize for Contemporary Southern Art (2024)

Deadline: August 30, 2024 | Fee (USD): $35.00

The Gibbes Museum’s 1858 Prize for Contemporary Southern Art is awarded to an artist whose work contributes to a new understanding of art in the South. Presented annually, the prize recognizes the highest level of artistic achievement and welcomes applications from artists working across any media. Artists from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia are eligible to apply. Previous winners have subsequently received awards from the Joan Mitchell Fellowship, the Guggenheim Memorial Foundation, and the Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grant, and whose work have been received into permanent collections of The National Gallery of Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Art Institute of Chicago.

 

A list of past winners is available here.

 

Winners of the prize will receive a cash award, be invited to present at the annual Amy P. Coy Forum in Charleston, and have a work of art installed at the Gibbes Museum for one calendar year. 

The extraordinary multi-disciplinary artist, Sherrill Roland, was the recipient of the 2023 Prize, receiving a cash award of $10,000 and whose work is now on exhibit at the Gibbes Museum until 2025. 

Applications can be made here: https://gibbesmuseum.slideroom.com/#/login/program/77574

THE ARTS CENTER SEEKS ENTRIES FOR UPCOMING “OPEN EXHIBIT”

Deadline: Monday, August 12, 2024

ATHENS, TN—Athens Area Council for the Arts (AACA) is pleased to present its annual Open Exhibit for residents of McMinn County and the surrounding counties. The entry deadline is Monday, August 12, 2024.

The exhibit has three divisions: High School, College, and Open. There is no entry fee for high school and college division artists, and those in the open division may enter for $10 per piece. Information about how to enter, including detailed prospectus and exhibit timeline, is available at athensartscouncil.org/open-exhibit-prospectus.

The exhibit will be on display in the Hallway Gallery at The Arts Center, September 9 through October 18, 2024. Viewing hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and during special events.

All AACA programs are supported by premiere sponsors Edward Jones of Athens, Tennessee Valley Authority, Willsonthropic, Inc. and Mintie C. Willson, and Wolfenden Family Pharmacies. Additional support comes from presenting sponsors: Friendly City Festivals and Muddy Waters Two Wine and Spirits. All other sponsors are recognized on AACA’s website.

More information about AACA programs is available at athensartscouncil.org, or over the phone at 423-745-8781. Staff is available via phone, or in person, at The Arts Center.  Office hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Arts Center is located in Historic Downtown Athens, Tennessee, in the Main Street District, at 320 North White Street.

Call for artists for glass exhibit in October

Deadline: August 1, 2024

Fischman Gallery announces a call for entries for “Regional Reflections: A Celebration of Glass Art,” a regional juried exhibition at Fischman Gallery in Johnson City, Tennessee. Artists are encouraged to submit glass work in any form, including hot and warm glass, blown glass, lampworking, slumping, casting, and fusing. Mixed media with glass dominant (at least 75 percent) is acceptable as are collaborative works. The Juror will be Mark Russell, professional glass artist at The Firehall Glass Studio, Greeneville, Tenn. Submission timeline: May 1 – August 1, 2024. Exhibition dates: Friday, October 4 through Sunday, October 27, 2024.

Regional artists aged 18+ residing in the Appalachian regions of East Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina are invited to submit up to three pieces for consideration. Check the list at https://www.arc.gov/appalachian-counties-served-by-arc/ to verify eligibility. Entry fee is $35 for three submissions; $25 for student submissions. Cash prizes for Juror’s Awards: First ($1,500), Second ($1,000), and Third ($750) place. Up to five Honorable Mentions at $200 each will be awarded. A Peoples’ Choice award will be given also ($500), along with a Student Award ($500).

For more information, see the artist call at https://fischmangallery.org/pages/october-2024 or email fischmangalleryglass10.2024@gmail.com.

Midwest Nice Art Summer 2024 Call for Entry

Deadline: July 20, 2024

Our Summer 2024 virtual exhibition, “sea change” sea change seeks artworks that explore dramatic transformations, changes, or shifts. Is it possible to locate the exact point in time when something becomes unrecognizable as itself? What does that look like? What processes, experiences, and events act as catalysts to personal and collective metamorphoses? What do they feel like? The works in sea change speak to moments when the familiar is suddenly made strange and new. Any mediums are welcome. This exhibition will be juried by artist Cort Hartle.

You may submit up to 3 artworks for a $5 fee, due July 20, 2024. Current and upcoming students can submit for free with the code “STUDENT2024”.

https://www.midwestnice.art/opencalls/sea-change

ATHENS AREA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS SEEKS ARTISTS TO DESIGN MURAL WITH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PIECE

Deadline: Friday June 21, 2024

ATHENS, TN — Athens Area Council for the Arts + The Arts Center invites experienced muralists of any background and geographical location to respond to its Request for Qualifications (RFQ). This RFQ is the first phase of a multiphase project intended to result in the installation of at least one exterior mural at The Arts Center in Athens, TN.

Up to three artists who respond to the RFQ will be invited to submit a mural design and proposal. These finalists will receive a $1,500 stipend for a submitted proposal. The second phase of this project occurs from July – August when finalists prepare proposals for mural(s) at The Arts Center, with a final design required for public display during an event on September 8. Proposals require a minimum of one mural design for the northernmost exterior wall of The Arts Center and a community engagement piece.

The deadline to submit qualifications is Friday June 21, 2024. Please note this deadline does not require a mural design. To respond to the RFQ artists should submit the following information via email to director@athensartscouncil.org with the subject line “RFQ Response.” Submissions must include a statement of interest and representative work samples. For more details on submission requirements and project scope visit athensartscouncil.org or email Lauren at director@athensartscouncil.org.

A panel of community leaders and artists will review submitted RFQs to support The Arts Center in selecting up to three finalists to invite to submit a proposal.

All AACA programs are supported by premiere sponsors Edward Jones of Athens, Tennessee Valley Authority, Willsonthropic, Inc. and Mintie C. Willson, and Wolfenden Family Pharmacies. Additional support comes from presenting sponsors: Friendly City Festivals and Muddy Waters Two Wine and Spirits. All other sponsors are recognized on AACA’s website.

More information about AACA programs is available at athensartscouncil.org, or over the phone at 423-745-8781. Staff is available via phone, or in person, at The Arts Center.  Office hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Arts Center is located in Historic Downtown Athens, Tennessee, in the Main Street District, at 320 North White Street.

VERMONT STUDIO CENTER CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Deadline: June 15, 2024

Vermont Studio Center is accepting applications until June 15th for residencies from November 2024 to April 2025. Vermont Studio Center (VSC) welcomes visual artists and writers for 2-, 3- and 4-week residencies to an inclusive, international community, honoring creative work as the communication of spirit through form. Nestled in the Green Mountain of Vermont, VSC provides private lodging, studios, fresh daily meals, and a vibrant visiting artists and writers program. Each residency welcomes 30 artists and writers to our Johnson, Vermont campus. All residents receive partial fellowships while 35% receive full fellowships. Explore fellowship offerings and apply today for a Vermont Studio Center residency.

Applications accepted through June 15, 2024. To apply, please follow all application guidelines and submit a $25 application fee.

For more information visit vermontstudiocenter.org/fellowships, email info@vermontstudiocenter.org or call 802-635-2727

About Vermont Studio Center: Celebrating 40 years in 2024, Vermont Studio Center (VSC) welcomes artists and writers for 2-to-4-week studio residencies in an inclusive, international community, honoring creative work as the communication of spirit through form. Our buildings, many of them historic Vermont landmarks, overlook the Gihon River in the northern Green Mountains.

VSC offers residents and the general public an opportunity to engage with global creative communities. We invite Visiting Writers and Artists from around the world to join us during our residencies to mentor residents, present readings, facilitate craft talks, and give lectures that are open to the public.  Starting in 2020, VSC opened its doors to the regional art community to offer studio space to area artists and writers at a deeply discounted rate through the Studios at VSC program.

For more information visit www.vermontstudiocenter.org 

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR MURAL PROJECT IN JOHNSON CITY, TN

Deadline: April 12, 2024 by 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time

 

The Public Art Committee of Johnson City, TN is seeking qualifications from artists or art teams for the commission of a mural to be located at 116 Buffalo Street in downtown Johnson City.

ELIGIBILITY: This opportunity is open to all professional artists over the age of 18. Applicants must reside within the United States.

BUDGET: Up to three finalists will be selected to develop design concepts for this project. The total project budget for the selected commission is $18,000. Finalists will be paid a $500 honorarium for their designs. The selected artist(s) will be paid $16,500 for the commissioned work. The three finalists will be required to present their proposals to the Selection Committee via Zoom. The selected artist(s) will be responsible for own travel costs, materials, housing, and personal liability insurance when installing the mural. The selected artist(s) will also be responsible for applying an appropriate primer, UV sealant, and anti-graffiti coating to the walls/mural surface. The City of Johnson City will pressure wash the walls and attend to any necessary repairs prior to the installation.

QUESTIONS: Cheyenne Kumbhare ckumbhare@johnsoncitytn.org 423-975-2706

ABOUT JOHNSON CITY
Johnson City, Tennessee is situated in the heart of the Mountain South and Blue Ridge foothills. Abounding in natural beauty and opportunities for recreation and adventure, the city has become a regionally and nationally prominent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In recent years, Johnson City has also begun to show off its considerable cultural assets, which range widely across the visual and performing arts. The city’s public art program has played a critical role in this development. For the last decade, the Johnson City Public Art Committee has been enhancing the distinctiveness and livability of the community through arts installations and annual events freely accessible to all.

At a population of 73,000 and counting, Johnson City is primed for tremendous opportunity as it cultivates its reputation as a regional leader in sustainable growth. Preserving our cultural and historical roots, evaluating present opportunities, and investing in a diverse future are at the forefront of this vibrant city.

Johnson City’s historic downtown district is an energetic hub of day-round activity and a major draw for locals and visitors alike. Downtown is home to an array of local restaurants, breweries, retailers, parks, public art, community events, and 360° mountain views. In the downtown area, the community values of honesty, authenticity, and meaningful connections are activated to welcome current, new, and potential residents and visitors.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Johnson City Public Art Committee has invested in several murals aimed at celebrating the community’s distinctive identity, rich cultural history, and reverence for our shared home in Northeast Tennessee. One of the most recent additions to the mural program highlights regional artists’ important and ongoing contributions to American music and craft. Continuing in this vein, the Committee is launching a new mural that will focus on our community’s dynamic tradition of oral and written literature and their vivid, vernacular forms of storytelling. The mural project encourages artists to explore the intersection of word and image through engagement with local poetry. A diverse selection of poems, composed by three different modern and contemporary poets local to the region, are provided for inspiration (included in “Appendix” section). Artists are free to work with any number of the poems that resonate with them. Visual responses to the poetic text do not need to be literal or illustrative. Artists are encouraged to borrow freely, even impressionistically, from the poems. Text may be incorporated into the composition, but this is not required. The Committee hopes that the resulting mural will resonate with the poetic legacy of our region, excite viewers’ imaginations, and foster pride in our community.

Piedmont Triad Airport Authority – Call for Outdoor Sculpture Artists

Deadline: April 19, 2024

Piedmont Triad, N.C. – The Piedmont Triad Airport Authority (PTAA) is now opening the 2024 search for artists with large outdoor sculptures. For the 2024/2025 exhibition, PTAA is opening up the call to sculptors of large-scale work to those residing in South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina.

Information can be found online here: https://flyfrompti.com/2024-call-to-artists/

Eight (8) Outdoor Sculpture Spaces have 6” deep cement pads. Five are approximately 4′ x 7′, two larger pads (10’x10’ and a 15’ triangle), and one site where the sculpture would rest on the ground. Work to be delivered and picked up by the artist. Work to be installed by an airport-provided professional installer. An artist must provide all hardware for installation. A stipend of $2000 will be given for each sculpture for the delivery and pick-up transportation costs.

The artwork will be on loan to the PTAA for one year and will be insured by PTAA while exhibited at the PTI Airport. Your name and contact information will be on each label so that the public can call to inquire about your work, and you may trade out a work that is sold for another similar work.

Artist Eligibility: For Outdoor Sculpture the area of eligibility will include artists residing in South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, Tennessee, and North Carolina.

Application Process: The Airport Authority will manage the application and selection process.

Timeline for Applications: The deadline for submissions is April 19, 2024, the first selection panel will be held in April/May 2024, selected artists will be contacted by May 31, 2024, installation of interior spaces will be in July 2024, installation of large, outdoor sculpture by August 2024, brochure of art walking tour completed by September 2024.

To see the art walking tour go to: https://flyfrompti.com/art-walking-tour/

Application Requirements:

  • Information should be sent via email with a set of 5 to 10 digital images of works of art available for exhibition. Accompany all submissions with an annotated image list, preferably with a photo of the image, the name of the artist, the title of the work, media, and size. A PC-compatible thumb drive sent via mail is also accepted.
  • A professional resume and an artist’s statement (a one-page letter stating interest in the project, outlining the artist’s approach to art and public art. Please include any connections you may have to the Piedmont Triad area.)
  • A self-addressed, stamped envelope for the return of your materials, if necessary.
  • All materials must be postmarked no later than April 19, 2024.
  • Notification of Artist Selection Panel results and the return of materials will be made by approximately May 31, 2024.

Emailing information is preferred: Please send it to Cheryl Stewart, Public Art Consultant at ccstewart44@gmail.com. Also, contact Cheryl with questions about RFQ and the selection process through the same email address.

If you prefer to mail information to:
PTI Public Art Project
c/o Stephanie Freeman
1000A Ted Johnson Parkway
Greensboro, NC 27409

City of St. Augustine, FL – Call to Artists

Apply by: April 1, 2024

City of St. Augustine-Call for Artists Summary The City of St. Augustine is seeking an artist or team of artists to create an original, large-scale, outdoor, public art installation for the roundabout at the intersection of May Street and San Marco Avenue.

The public art installation should be a signature piece for the St. Augustine community and should reflect some aspect of the City’s culture, unique history, or natural environment. The artwork should appeal to a broad audience and should be site-responsive, and properly scaled to the surroundings. The materials used must be able to withstand extreme weather and heavy traffic and must be structurally sound and require low upkeep and minimal maintenance costs. The site is located within a Florida Department of Transportation roadway and the artwork will have to meet all FDOT requirements and have signed and sealed engineering plans. This public art should reflect civic content and be a form of symbolic speech of the municipality, therefore no logos, words, symbols, or statements should be included.

Please click here for the documents. The complete Request for Qualifications (RFQ) can be found online at available to view on the City of St. Augustine’s website at www.citystaug.com, on the commercial service DemandStar at www.demandstar.com/ and complete electronic submittals may be submitted through the CaFE website portal at www.callforentry.org/ . The direct link to Café is https://artist.callforentry.org/festivals_unique_info.php?ID=13077

Ag in Art call for Entries

Deadline: March 15, 2024

The Appalachian Resource Conservation & Development Council (ARCD) announces a call for entries for “Ag in Art,” a regional juried exhibition at Fischman Gallery in Johnson City, Tennessee. Artists are encouraged to submit work related to farming, gardening, farmers markets, food access, generational farming, land conservation, food systems, growing and harvesting food and goods, food justice, and other related topics. The Juror will be Heather F. Wetzel, Galleries and Collections Manager for Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. Submission deadline: March 15, 2024. Exhibition dates: Friday, May 3 through Friday, May 31, 2024.

Artists can submit a work in any medium that speaks to or reflects a connection with agriculture. For example, works can feature imagery that connects to agriculture or be made of locally sourced or repurposed materials. In the submission form, artists will be asked to pick a word from a list of concepts that reflect the work, vision, and mission of ARCD. Artists may use these words as prompts for creating a new piece of art or describe how an existing piece fits into the Ag In Art theme.

Artists must be aged 16+ and reside in the counties directly served by ARCD. Please see the full Call for Artists page for location details. Artists can submit up to 3 pieces for consideration per $25 entry fee. Cash prizes will be awarded for the winners selected by the Juror and a People’s Choice award selected during the exhibition.

For full details and a link to the application page, please visit: https://arcd.org/ag-in-art-2024-juried-exhibition

Gatlinburg SkyPark Art Installation – Request for Proposals

Deadline: March 1, 2024

Project:

We want to partner with regional artists/sculptors to bring art to the SkyPark, specifically the Sky Trail.

We believe that connecting our guests with southern art and sculpture will allow them to engage more in the viewing perspective of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We also believe that the arts can fulfill our mission: “Create enduring experiences for our guests and customers”.

The project will have an artist design and construct sculptural pieces to be installed on the SkyTrail, a trail that is 1200’ long. The pieces will be viewable by walking the trail, on the inboard side of the trail. We encourage creativity, modern and interactive or lighted pieces. We recommend color, non-fragile, and kinetic art.

Who we are:

The Gatlinburg SkyPark (GSP) is Gatlinburg’s longest running attraction and home of the Gatlinburg SkyBridge: North America’s longest pedestrian cable bridge. We offer an outdoor scenic park that is accessible to all ages. Our activities include a SkyTrail hiking path and the famous Tulip Tower to climb to get great views of the bridge and mountains. Relax on the SkyDeck amphitheater and take in the Best Views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Goals:

  • Engage our audience in a creative way that is different from other attractions in Gatlinburg
  • Have an artist design and construct sculptural pieces to be installed on the SkyTrail, a trail that is 1200’ long. The pieces will be viewable by walking the trail, on the inboard side of the trail. We encourage creativity, modern and interactive or lighted pieces. We recommend color, nonfragile, and kinetic art.
  • Create another point of interest within the park.
  • Each piece, can convey some reference to our 1) regional Appalachian culture, 2) evoke a reference to the history of the National Park, 3) suggestive of the local Native American history.

Proposed Budget:
GSP proposes $5,000 to $8,000 per piece. GSP will provide a concrete foundation: 2 foot wide by 3’ long and will provide lighting to aid in night time viewing.

Conditions to be aware of:

  1. Vandalism is real in the park. Visitors have sketched, etched, various site elements in the past so durability is very important.
  2. SkyPark receives approximately a 500,000 visitors a years that span every generation. We promote this as a family oriented attraction and appropriate subject matter should align with that audience.
  3. Gatlinburg SkyPark reserves the right to rotate each installation at its discretion.
  4. Gatlinburg SkyPark will use images of the sculpture to promote the park and the walk at its own discretion while naming the artist involved.
  5. Gatlinburg SkyPark will be expanding the SkyTrail to other sections of the Park and may continue to add more locations for sculpture in the future.
  6. Gatlinburg SkyPark will recognize authorship of all works in promotional materials.

Timeline:

  • March 1 – final proposal
  • April 1 – Design Review
  • Summer – First installation of 6 sculptures
  • Other installations to continue over the next 12 month period

Marketing and PR:

  • Co-marketing plan with GSP and the Arts Community
  • Area chambers

Rules:

  • The artwork/project must be lasting/permanent but part of rotating display.
  • All artwork prior to creation must be approved by GSP architect, president and GM.

Process:

  • Submit sketch of proposed work on materials no larger than 11 x 17.
  • Maximum dimensions of sculpture may not exceed more than 36” wide and 8’ in height so as not to constrict pedestrian circulation on the SkyTrail.
  • Maximum 30 day approval period by SkyPark.
  • All Sculpture material costs to be born by sculptor.
  • All installation cost will be managed and paid for by Gatlinburg SkyPark.

For more information or to request a tour of the park, please contact:

Kristen Lodge
Marketing Director, Gatlinburg SkyPark
Kristen.lodge@gatlinburgskypark.com
603-892-471

Tennessee Craft Summer Study Scholarships

DEADLINE: February 29, 2024

We are pleased to announce that applications for our highly anticipated Summer Study Workshop Scholarships are officially open!

Tennessee Craft creates environments for life-changing connections to spark and grow, fostering supportive artist-to-artist relationships, building maker communities across the state, and preserving traditional craft methods by educating both our membership and the public about the people, processes and rich traditions of craft in Tennessee.

Workshops available for funding include Summer Study Programs at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, and Shakerag Workshops from early June through mid-August 2024.

Scholarships are intended to provide educational advancement to craft artists wishing to improve their knowledge and skills in a craft medium of their choice. Our partnership with each school creates a unique opportunity to fulfill Tennessee Craft’s mission to continue and create Tennessee’s fine craft traditions. We encourage and support interested craft artists to explore the Summer Study Workshops being offered and follow the link below to apply for scholarships. Details regarding inclusion of tuition; room and board; materials fees and workshop dates may vary please read the workshop descriptions and application carefully for details!

The submission window is open from January 24, through February 29, 2024. All applications must be submitted electronically no later than 11:59 PM CST on February 29, 2024.

APPLY TODAY

Call for Workshop Proposals:
Innovation, Culture, and Creativity

Concept outline deadline – February 16, 2024

Details and application instructions: icc.ucla.edu/cfw

In 2024, the Innovation, Culture, and Creativity (ICC) project will fund workshops across the U.S. that explore support for innovation at the intersection of culture, creativity, and technology.

Funded by the National Science Foundation’s Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (TIP) and organized by a multidisciplinary team from UCLA and UC Santa Barbara, the ICC project is bringing together experts and stakeholders in convenings across the country to identify actionable opportunities at this intersection.

Workshops will be funded for at most $75k each and should support the project’s three goals:

  1. Examine the role of regional culture in strengthening innovation ecosystems.
  2. Support the continued competitiveness of U.S. industries involved in the creative sector.
  3. Develop novel strategies to expand and diversify the STEM workforce by engaging practical applications at the intersection of technology, innovation, and creativity.

More details on the goals, requirements, and proposal process can be found at https://icc.ucla.edu/cfw.

Teams interested in organizing a workshop must submit a concept outline by February 16, 2024.  Organizations that have not historically received federal R&D support are encouraged to apply!

Two informational webinars will be held ahead of the concept outline deadline:

For questions not answered on the website, please email icc@remap.ucla.edu.

Fellowship Application Now Open

Apply by February 15, 2024

Fellowships Available at Vermont Studio Center

Deadline: February 15, 2024

Vermont Studio Center’s first cycle of 2024 applications is now open for April to December residencies. VSC welcomes visual artists and writers for 2-, 3- and 4-week residencies to an inclusive, international community, honoring creative work as the communication of spirit through form. Nestled in the Green Mountain of Vermont, VSC provides private lodging, studios, fresh meals, and a vibrant visiting artists and writers program.

Explore fellowship offerings and apply today for a 2024 residency. For more information visit vermontstudiocenter.org/fellowships – email info@vermontstudiocenter.org – or call 802-635-2727

CALL FOR ARTWORKS

The Home I Never Knew: Ni de Aqui, Ni de Alla

Guest Curated by Flor Herrera-Picasso, Casa Azul de Wilson
June 7 – October 26, 2024
Greenville Museum of Art
802 South Evans Street, Greenville, NC 27834

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 10, 2024

Opening in June 2024, the Greenville Museum of Art (GMoA) will host The Home I Never Knew: Ni de Aqui, Ni de Alla, a group exhibition of artwork by Latino/a/x artists from or currently residing in the southeast region of the United States. Accepting artworks by artists ages 15+ and working in all media, the GMoA aims to provide a space for artists identifying within the Latino/a/x community to share about their lives growing up in this region, including hardships, triumphs, and everything in between. Reclaiming the idea of “ni de aqui, ni de alla,” or “not from here, nor there,” we will highlight the range of individual and shared experiences associated with being both “from here” AND “from there,” belonging or not belonging, or feeling mentally, emotionally, or culturally from elsewhere. The title of this exhibition was inspired by the pictured artist, Maria Elena Ramirez.

The selected artworks will be on display at GMoA from June 7 – October 26, 2024, and will be featured in an exhibition catalog. All selected artists will receive one copy of the catalog and a $150 stipend for their participation in the exhibition. All media will be considered but works must not have been exhibited at the GMoA previously. Artists can submit up to five (5) artworks but should clarify if multiple works are part of a series. There is no submission fee for this exhibition. Use the following application to submit your proposals (one application per artwork). Each artwork submission must include 1-3 high-resolution photos (300 dpi minimum) and a formal artist statement (200 words maximum). Both the photos and the artist statements will be used in the catalog and must be submitted as final versions. GMoA will hire a translator to translate all texts to Spanish, however, artists preferring to offer their own Spanish translations of their artist statements are encouraged to do so.

Send application materials to exhibitions@gmoa.org (subject line “The Home I Never Knew – [LAST NAME]”) by Saturday, February 10, 2024. Contact the Museum at 252.758.1946 with questions. No in-person visits with artworks, please. Artists will be notified of their acceptance into the exhibition via email by February 23, 2024. Selected artworks must be delivered or shipped to the Museum by May 10, 2024. Artists are responsible for the delivery or shipping of their artwork to GMoA and their return. Any artwork that is shipped must come with a pre-paid return label. All work must be completely dry, framed, wired, or otherwise ready to exhibit. After the exhibition, artworks must be picked up or will be shipped by November 16, 2024.

Click here for the application document.