Call for Art - SculptureWalk Sioux Falls 2027

Overview

SculptureWalk Sioux Falls is the largest annual exhibit of public sculptures in the world, transforming downtown Sioux Falls into an open-air gallery each year with over 70 sculptures on display. Artists of all backgrounds—emerging, mid-career, and established—are invited to submit original sculptures for consideration.

Key Dates

• August 1, 2026 - Call for Art Opens
• October 1, 2026 - Submission Deadline
• Mid-October 2026 - Selection Committee meets
• Early November 2026 - Artists notified of results
• April 1, 2027 - Shipped Sculptures Delivery Deadline
• May 7, 2027 - Sculpture Delivery and Drop Off (11:00 AM - 4:00 PM)
• May 8, 2027 - Sculpture Installation (5:00 AM - 9:00 AM)
• May 8, 2027 - Artist Reception (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

Eligibility

Open to all artists, both professional and amateur, regardless of location. Original work must be appropriate for public display and suitable for long-term, year-round outdoor exhibition. All sculptures must be constructed with safety and durability in mind and capable of withstanding South Dakota's climate, including wind, snow, and extreme temperatures. Each sculpture must have a steel base plate (minimum 3") with four mounting tabs spaced 90° apart, securely attached to the bottom.

Submission Requirements

• Submit up to 5 original sculptures ($25 entry fee)
• Artist Statement or Biography describing you as an artist and the inspiration behind each sculpture
• High-quality photos of your own original sculptures (if submitting a concept, include renderings and examples of previous work)
• For each sculpture: Title, Height, Width, Depth, Weight, Selling Price, and Material

Selection & Awards

Entries are evaluated blind by a jury of local dignitaries and art enthusiasts based on artistic merit, creativity, public safety, and durability. Selected sculptors receive a $1,500 honorarium. Best of Show sculpture will be purchased by the City of Sioux Falls for up to $30,000. Public voting determines People's Choice winners: 1st Place $3,000, 2nd Place $2,000, 3rd Place $1,000. Artists earning three Best of Show or People's Choice awards receive SculptureWalk Virtuoso Certification and a $2,000 honorarium toward a future exhibition.

Sales & Insurance

SculptureWalk will retain a 25% commission on any sculptures sold or commissioned as a result of being part of or displayed in the program. Liability and Inland Marine (collision and comprehensive) insurance coverage will be provided on all accepted sculptures.

Travel Support

Artists traveling more than 150 miles to Sioux Falls for installation weekend will receive a travel stipend based on distance from their ZIP Code, up to $500. Each artist will receive a complimentary two-night stay at a Downtown Sioux Falls hotel during installation weekend.

Important Notes

SculptureWalk will not accept entries identical to sculptures currently installed or scheduled in other public programs within 200 miles of Sioux Falls. If such a sculpture was previously exhibited in SculptureWalk, it will not be eligible for awards. SculptureWalk volunteers and welders will assist with unloading and installation. SculptureWalk reserves the right to withdraw any artwork deemed unsafe or unsuitable for public display.

Contact

• Email: [email protected]