The Redbud Arts Center invites artists to propose an original temporary public sculpture for installation at various boulevards in Houston, Texas.

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We are seeking a compelling, site-responsive work that engages Houston’s diverse communities, reflects the character of its setting, and creates a memorable public experience. Proposals may explore Houston’s culture, environment, history, future, or another theme relevant to the site. The selected artwork will be displayed for approximately one year and should be designed for safe outdoor exhibition and nonpolitical content.

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Opportunity Details

• Project location: JFK Boulevard, Richmond Avenue, North Post Oak Road, Gulfgate Area

• Artist award: $3,000 inclusive of design, fabrication, engineering, transportation, installation, maintenance, insurance, and removal

• Display period: 2027

• Application deadline: December 1, 2026

• Notification of selection: December 15, 2026

• Installation: First Quarter 2027
   

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to local, regional, national, or international artists and artist teams age 18 or older. Artists with experience creating durable, site-specific, or public-facing work are encouraged to apply.

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Artwork Requirements

• Be original and appropriate for a public, all-ages setting.

• Respond thoughtfully to the site and remain visually engaging from multiple viewpoints. Work should contain color to improve visibility.

• Withstand Houston’s heat, humidity, rain, wind, and normal public interaction for the full display period.

• Meet applicable safety, accessibility, structural, permitting, and installation requirements. Keep work under 600 lbs and designed to fit inside a 10x10x29 ft rectangular space. Work is to be anchored if required on existing 5 ft sq concrete pad.

• Require minimal maintenance and allow removal without permanent damage to the site.

• Not include advertising, commercial branding, or discriminatory content.
   

Application Materials

1. A current resume or curriculum vitae for each participating artist.

2. A brief artist statement and biography.

3. A proposal narrative describing the concept, materials, dimensions, and public experience.

4. Each artist can submit up to three entries. For each sculpture, please provide:
   - One photo if the piece is already finished and available.
   - One photo or scan of your sketch or rendering if the sculpture is not yet finished or is just an idea.
   - All images and scans must be submitted in JPEG format
    

Selection Criteria

Proposals will be reviewed for artistic quality, relevance to the site, feasibility, durability, public safety, accessibility, budget, and the applicant’s demonstrated ability to complete the project on schedule. A selection panel composed of artists, community representatives, design professionals, and organizational staff will recommend the final project.

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How to Apply

Fill out entry form below. All submissions are due on December 1, 2026 at 11:59pm. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Questions: Contact Tanja Peterson at tanja@redbudartscenter.com.

Questions and responses may be shared with all applicants to ensure a fair process.