Newport Beach Civic Center Sculpture Exhibition - Phase XI

Overview

The City of Newport Beach announces a call for entries for Phase XI of its ongoing Sculpture Exhibition to further activate the splendor of its Civic Center Park. Up to ten artworks may be selected and showcased for three years in the 14-acre, ocean-view site designed by renowned landscape architect Peter Walker as an intended sculpture garden. The Civic Center Park welcomes residents and visitors year-round and the Sculpture Exhibition transforms it into a "museum without walls," constantly evolving as new, bold contemporary works rotate through.

Key Dates

• Submission deadline: September 18, 2026 at 11:59pm Mountain Time (10:59pm Pacific Time)
• Installation period: June 1-19, 2027
• Exhibition period: June 2027 to June 2030

Eligibility

Artists, private collectors, galleries, and museums/non-profit institutions are eligible. Artwork must be the original work of the identified artist(s). At time of submission, artworks must be located in the United States, finished, installation-ready, and available for the entire exhibition period.

Selection Criteria

• Artistic Merit: Substantial professional qualifications reflected in high-quality submissions demonstrating originality and artistic excellence; artworks readily visible from interpretive trails and suitable for viewing from all angles; appropriate for audiences of all ages
• Durability: High-quality materials that withstand coastal Southern California elements for minimum three years; consideration given to structural and surface integrity, protection against theft and vandalism, and minimal maintenance requirements
• Site Responsiveness: Appropriate in scale, material, and content for immediate, general, social, and physical environments; must not exhibit unsafe conditions or factors bearing on public liability; green/sustainable strategies welcome but not required

Media & Installation Requirements

Artworks will typically be installed on concrete pads raised approximately 4" above ground or affixed to concrete footings flush with ground. Some works may contact the ground directly. Special installation requirements must be explained in submission form, including dimensions and weight of any bases, plinths, or structural elements.

Application Materials

• Title of artwork
• Very brief description (25-word maximum)
• Practical physical description including materials, accurate dimensions, weight, special installation needs, unique features
• Estimated value of artwork
• Current location of artwork
• If relevant, collection or courtesy information
• List of previous exhibition locations, if any
• Outdoor public installation experience and preparation plan
• Explanation of artwork's appropriateness for Civic Center Park

Submission Format

• Images: minimum 2, maximum 4
• Video: maximum 2
• Total assets: minimum 2, maximum 4
• Submission limit: 1 artwork per applicant

Contact Information

• Organization: Arts Orange County
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 714-556-5160
• Location: Irvine, California