Art on the Street 2027 Call for Outdoor Sculptures

Overview

Exhibit your sculpture outdoors in downtown Lafayette, Colorado for one year as part of the Art on the Street program. The City of Lafayette and Public Art Committee seek diversity in materials, subject matter, artists, and stories told. Each sculpture is featured on a dedicated web page and in bilingual brochures (English and Spanish). The program is entering its 19th year with 21 sculpture locations to fill. On average, 1–2 sculptures have been purchased each year.

Key Dates

• Submission deadline: October 22, 2026
• Public Art Committee selections: November 2026
• Artist notification: December 2026
• Installation: April 19–22, 2027 (rain/snow alternate dates the following week)
• Reception and Awards Ceremony: October 16, 2027 (tentative)
• Uninstall: April 2028

Eligibility

National. Open to artists.

Awards & Honorarium

• Base honorarium: $1,200 for one-year installation
• Jean Mellblom Award for Artistic Excellence: $1,000
• People's Choice Award: $500
• Most Inspiring! Award: $500

How to Enter

• Submit 3–6 photos of one sculpture per application
• Photos from different sides and close-ups are encouraged
• Only one sculpture per application
• Artists may submit up to three applications/three sculptures

Application Requirements

Submit 3–6 images (photos) of your sculpture. Answer all application questions thoroughly to help the Public Art Committee make decisions that support community representation, inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. The Committee will evaluate all submissions based on artistic merit, inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility.

Installation & Support

The City will install your artwork on steel pedestals or concrete pads with steel inserts. Our installation crew will carefully install and secure your work under your supervision and with your assistance. We provide welding equipment, power drills, lifts, hardware, and all tools and resources needed for quality installation. Our staff will work with you to choose the best orientation for public viewing.

Marketing & Community Engagement

Each sculpture is featured in a Story Map on the City's website with a photo of the artwork, artist photo, purchase information, and artist statement. The annual See & Respond! community engagement art contest highlights Art on the Street sculptures, encouraging public participation in poetry, 2D art, and photography. The culminating Meet the Artists Reception is held in October at the Lafayette Public Library and includes awards and recognition presentations.