Organizer Information
Sculpture Missoula is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to building a dynamic collection of public art in Missoula, Montana. Through a formal agreement with the City of Missoula, the organization transforms Silver Park—a 15-acre riverside destination—into a rotating sculpture gallery that connects art, nature, and community.
Title & Description
Sculpture Missoula 2026: National Call for Public Sculpture
Sculpture Missoula is seeking five new large-scale sculptures for installation in its riverfront sculpture garden. This is the second year of a multi-year program designed to create a rotating showcase where works are exhibited for a two-year period. The sculptures are placed along meandering paths linked to the city’s trail system, previously the site of a historic sawmill, offering high visibility to both residents and visitors.
Categories
Public Art, Sculpture, and Installation Art.
Eligibility
- Location: National (Open to artists across the United States).
- Style: Various styles and durable exterior materials are encouraged.
- Requirements: Works must be durable enough to withstand Missoula’s mountain climate (wind, snow, and sub-zero temperatures) and be ADA-compliant.
- Restrictions: No work advocating for specific religions or political parties will be accepted.
- Equity: The selection process prioritizes non-discrimination and strives for gender, racial, and ethnic equity.
Program Benefits and Awards
- Stipend: $2,000 total ($1,000 upon delivery; $1,000 upon retrieval).
- Travel & Shipping: Up to $250 reimbursement for expenses.
- Accommodation: Up to four nights of lodging provided during the September installation week.
- Award: Eligibility for the $1,000 People’s Choice Award.
- Sales: All works are offered for sale during the two-year exhibition period (a commission may apply; artists are encouraged to consider permanent donation to the park).
Fees
Application Fee: None mentioned
Application Requirements
- Quantity: Up to 3 separate applications (artworks) allowed.
- Portfolio: 3–5 high-quality images per artwork (JPEGs) or 1 video.
- Documentation: Resume/CV and a brief artist statement including dimensions, weight, price, and materials.
- Technical: Artists must provide a metal plate at the base of the sculpture for spot-welding to the park's pedestals.
How to Apply?
Submit applications through the CaFÉ portal. For additional artworks, users must "Apply Again" after the first checkout. Apply to Sculpture Missoula.
Key Dates
- Entry Deadline: May 22, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. MDT.
- Jury Selection: May 23 – June 12, 2026.
- Installation Week: September 14, 2026.
- Public Reception: September 17, 2026.
Location
United Kingdom, United States, Missoula, Montana (Silver Park).
Additional Details
Silver Park is situated on the Clark Fork River near downtown Missoula and the University of Montana. Artists are responsible for transporting their work and applying a sealant to discourage graffiti.