Organizer Information
The City of Burlington, through its Recreation, Community & Culture department, is leading the Civic Square Renewal project. This initiative reimagines functional construction barriers as a platform for artistic expression, celebrating local talent and fostering community connection during the transformation of City Hall’s facade and surrounding streetscapes.
Title & Description
Transitions: Civic Square Hoarding Project.
This temporary public art series features up to 21 artists and writers whose work will be reproduced on 48” x 48” signage panels. The theme, "Transitions," invites reflections on the present moment, current changes, or future possibilities. The project seeks to highlight Burlington’s multicultural strength and honor its past while looking forward.
Categories
Visual Art, Graphic Art, Illustration, Photography, Writing, and Photography of 3D Works (Sculpture, Fashion, Craft).
Eligibility
- Location: Open to Burlington-based artists and writers.
- Indigenous Inclusion: Applications are strongly encouraged from members of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Six Nations of the Grand River.
- Work Type: Submissions must be existing work that is suitable for reproduction on outdoor signage.
Program Benefits and Awards
- Artist Fee: $400 CAD (exclusive of HST) per selected work.
- Production: The City covers all costs for production, installation, and maintenance.
- Showcase: High-traffic display along Brant St. at the front of City Hall.
- Rights: Artists retain copyright while granting the City the right to reproduce the work for this project.
Fees
Application Fee: None (via Submittable).
Application Requirements
- Artwork Statement: Max 150 words outlining the work and its connection to the theme.
- Visual Submission: High-resolution digital image (scalable to max 44” W x 34” H).
- Writing Submission: Max 150 words (including consideration for formatting/line breaks).
- Artist Biography: Max 50 words, written in the third person.
- Constraints: No profanity, hate speech, logos, or imagery resembling traffic signals. Must be AODA compliant (legible text).
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted online via the Submittable portal at burlingtonpublicart.com/calls-for-artists.
Key Dates
- Submission Deadline: Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
- Selection Notification: May 27, 2026.
- Final Files Due: June 5, 2026.
- Installation: June 2026.
Location
Canada, Burlington, Ontario (Civic Square).
Additional Details
Selected works will be printed on durable panels including the artist's name, title, and year. For support or accommodations, contact Olivia Hope at 289-208-4699 or publicart@burlington.ca.