The City of Dubuque, IA is seeking artist applications for the 15th annual Art on the River sculpture exhibit along the Mississippi Riverwalk in the Port of Dubuque.
BUDGET: $1,500 stipend plus chance to compete for $1,000 Best of Show and $200 People's Choice awards; lodging provided for opening event
ELIGIBILITY: U.S.-based artists
DEADLINE: May 1, 2020
Project Description
Each year up to 10 sculptures are chosen for exhibit at highly visible locations along the picturesque Mississippi Riverwalk. A juror will review all applications submitted and make recommendations to the City of Dubuque's Arts and Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission which advises City Council on the final selections. Chosen artists will be notified in early June and will be required to sign a contract agreeing to the terms of the program; an Example Artist Agreement Form is available for download and review.
Theme
"Resilient Earth" has been selected as the theme for the 2020-21 exhibit, in conjunction with nationwide celebrations of the 50th anniversary of Earth Day and statewide programming inspired by the 100th anniversary of the State of Iowa parks system.
Artwork Details
Existing sculptures, as well as concept proposals for new sculptural work, are encouraged. Both permanent and temporal/semi-permanent works will be considered. Successful applications will propose sculptures that draw connections between the arts and earth sciences; speak to conservation, sustainability efforts, or environmental stewardship; highlight the natural beauty of the Mississippi River; or speak to the resiliency of the natural world, especially the Mississippi River.
Project Timeline
Installation/Removal
Selected artists will be responsible for delivering, installing and removing his/her work of art, working closely with City of Dubuque staff. City of Dubuque can provide installation assistance in the form of man power and some onsite transportation or moving equipment; detail your needs when asked in the application form.
Insurance
The City shall maintain insurance coverage on the work while on display at Art on the River for vandalism, theft, or damage. Insurance coverage is not provided on any works of art while in transit to or from Art on the River.
Sales
Artworks are encouraged to be for sale and will remain on display for the time frame noted in the Artist Agreement Form. The City of Dubuque will coordinate all financial transactions relating to the sales of artwork. During the course of the year, special efforts will be made to promote the impact of public art to encourage purchase the sculptures. The City will receive 25% of the sale price of any sculptures sold during or as a result of the show, with proceeds supporting the long-term funding for the Art on the River program. Any unsold artwork must be removed by the artist at the end of the exhibition period.
What to Submit
How to Submit
Submit online here.
QUESTIONS? Contact Jenni Petersen-Brant, Arts & Cultural Affairs Coordinator, 563.690.6059 or jbrant@cityofdubuque.org