Harlem Sculpture Gardens - Bronx Council On The Arts

Overview

Harlem Sculpture Gardens is announcing its fourth call for outdoor sculpture and design in West Harlem, New York City. The exhibition will take place from spring through late fall in 2027, with primary sites at the historic parks Morningside, St. Nicholas, and Jackie Robinson. The show is led by the West Harlem Art Fund and New York Artist Equity Association in collaboration with the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, local community boards, and neighborhood groups.

Eligibility

Open to all artists, including individual artists, teams of artists, and collaborations between artists and galleries. NYC residency is strongly encouraged but not required. Artists of color and emerging artists from underserved communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Key Dates

• Submissions open now through October 30th
• Exhibition: spring through late fall 2027

Sculpture Requirements

Sculptures must be suitable for general public viewing and pose no threat to public safety. No sexual, political, or violent content will be accepted. Materials must be resilient enough to withstand harsh NYC weather. All work should NOT exceed 10 feet in ANY dimension. Site-specific works are strongly recommended but not required. Artists are responsible for transportation and delivery to and from the display site and for maintaining their sculptures throughout the exhibition, including damage from weather or vandals.

Application Requirements

• Written description of proposed artwork including title, medium, dimensions (height × width × depth), weight, installation method, and anchoring procedure
• If proposing existing work: photographs or slides including reference to human scale
• If proposing new work: working drawings or photograph of maquette to scale
• Artist's statement and resume
• Proposed location for installation
• Up to ten clearly labeled images of previous work with artist name, title, media, and dimensions

Process

Email the organizers stating your interest to receive additional information and tour dates. Tours will be made available to artists along with reference information about West Harlem's cultural, demographic, and natural history.

Liability & Insurance

Presenters will cover comprehensive general liability insurance and a bond to the City of New York to cover site restoration only. Neither the City of New York nor the show presenters are liable for damage to sculptures, nor are they able to maintain them. Artist assumes full responsibility for their work.