The City of Olathe is seeking large-scale, three-dimensional sculpture entries or temporary art installations. Olathe's annual Downtown Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit supports the City's vision to build the identity of Olathe, activate public spaces, and connect people to the community through art. Public art can help tell Olathe's stories, engage people in meaningful ways and provide valuable, interactive experiences. All sculpture entries will be juried by the Olathe Public Art Committee, and selected sculptures will remain on display in Olathe for a one year period. 

Potential sculpture sites can be viewed on the interactive sculpture map, pin #26-34. Olathe’s downtown is growing ever more vibrant and diverse. It’s a center of government and professional services, unique small businesses, historical neighborhoods, and cultural opportunities. Downtown Olathe is home to a new library, and the site of the newly redeveloped Johnson County Square, an open green space including a multipurpose stage programmed with live music and events throughout the year, a memorial plaza, and children's play area. 

Important Dates
January 2, 2024 - Entries must be received
March 6, 2024 - Notice of selections sent to artists
June 3, 2024 - Art delivery deadline
June 10, 2024 - Exhibition opens
May 5, 2025 - Exhibition closes

Awards 
Artists will receive a $2,500 honorarium for each work selected for a one-year lease. 

Criteria & Specifications
• Sculptures must be suitable for long-term outdoor display.
• Sculptures should be as vandal proof as possible and safe to the public. 
• The sculpture must be considerable in scale as many sites are viewed from a distance. 
• The durability and size of the piece will be a consideration for selection. 
• Sculptures must be capable of being properly secured to the ground or concrete.
• Local artists are encouraged to submit.

Large, colorful, and/or interactive pieces are encouraged! 

Eligibility 
Open to all artists 18 years of age and older. All entries must be original work.

 Entry Process 
• Complete one application. You may submit up to 3 sculptures for consideration. Please include at least 2 images of each sculpture. Please label images clearly with the sculpture name. 
• An entry fee of $10 is required. 

 Delivery and Return of Selected Artwork 
• Artists are responsible for the delivery/return of sculptures and all associated costs. 
• Sculptures may be shipped to the City at the artists’ expense. 
• Sculptures must be delivered Monday-Friday between 9 am-3 pm no later than June 3, 2024. 
• Artists must reclaim their sculpture by May 5, 2025. 

The 2024 Exhibit will be juried by an Art Selection Panel comprised of Olathe Public Art Committee members and City of Olathe staff. Learn more about the members of the Olathe Public Art Committee. 

Application Requirements

You must submit an application through Cafe. You may submit up to three sculptures on one application. Please label images clearly with the sculpture name. 

Eligibility Criteria

Open to all artists 18 years of age and older. All entries must be original work.