Organizer Information
Hive Curates is a London-based contemporary art organization that specializes in place-making, public art commissions, and community-led cultural projects. They work closely with local councils, developers, and brands to transform urban spaces through immersive experiences. Known for their collaborative approach, Hive Curates acts as a bridge between artists and the public realm, often focusing on social themes such as environmental sustainability, safety, and heritage.
Title & Description
Open Call: Existing Outdoor Artworks – Light Up Kilburn 2026
Following the success of its inaugural edition, "Light Up Kilburn" returns for 2026. This festival transforms Kilburn Grange Park into a radiant, immersive experience of light during the darkest winter months. Hive Curates, in partnership with Camden Council, is seeking high-quality, artistically innovative pre-existing light artworks that can be adapted to the park's outdoor environment. The festival aims to unite the local community while addressing two core themes: Biodiversity and Women’s Night-time Safety.
Categories
- Light Art & Installations: Outdoor-ready light works.
- Design & Architecture: Structures that incorporate light and spatial design.
- Public Art: Site-responsive works suitable for a large open-access park.
Eligibility
- Open to: Artists, designers, and architects.
- Scope: While the location is London-based, the call is open to practitioners who have existing work that meets the technical requirements for outdoor exhibition.
- Requirement: Applicants must be available for the specific installation and de-installation dates in London.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Artist Fee: A fixed fee of £2,500 (plus VAT).
- Inclusions: This fee is comprehensive and must cover the artwork hire, transport to the site, and the labor for installation and de-installation.
- Exposure: Inclusion in a high-profile public festival in North-West London with significant community engagement and marketing.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Artwork Proposal: A clear description of the existing artwork.
- Technical Details: Confirmation that the work is suitable for an outdoor setting (weatherproofing, power requirements, etc.).
- Thematic Alignment: An explanation of how the piece responds to "Biodiversity" or "Women’s Night-time Safety."
- Availability: Confirmation of availability for the installation window.
How to Apply?
Submit your artwork proposal and portfolio directly via email to: hello@hivecurates.com
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 5 January 2026
- Installation: 26 February 2026
- Festival Dates: Friday, February 27 – Saturday, February 28, 2026
- De-installation: Saturday, February 28 (after 9 PM) or Sunday, March 1, 2026
Location
North-West London, United Kingdom
Additional Details
Hive Curates is also seeking volunteers for the festival to assist with workshops, artist support, and promotion during January and February 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for students or emerging arts managers to gain hands-on experience in festival production. Interested individuals can find the registration form on the Hive Curates opportunities page.