Nashville Public Library Courtyard Sculpture Project

The Nashville Public Library stands as a cornerstone of community and knowledge within the heart of Tennessee's capital city. Serving as more than just a repository of books, it acts as a cultural hub, an educational resource, and a vital community space where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can learn, connect, and explore.

At the heart of this vibrant institution lies the library's historic courtyard, a tranquil oasis amidst the urban landscape. Recognizing the importance of revitalizing this cherished space, the Nashville Public Library has embarked on a comprehensive restoration project. Central to this effort is the restoration of the fountain itself, ensuring it once again becomes a focal point for reflection and relaxation within the city center. Beyond mere functionality, the library aims to transform the courtyard into a dynamic cultural destination, combining heritage with contemporary artistry.

To achieve this vision, the library is now seeking a visionary sculptor to create large-scale artwork(s) that will complement the restored fountain and breathe new life into the courtyard. The ultimate goal is for the sculpture(s) to provide a shading opportunity with the possibility that the climbing plant material aspect may not be utilized - it really depends on the vision and creativity of each artist!

This sculpture is not just an aesthetic addition but a symbol of renewal and community spirit. It is envisioned as a piece that will resonate with themes of storytelling and literature—an endless narrative that invites contemplation and connection among visitors.

The selected artist will have the unique opportunity to contribute to Nashville's cultural landscape, leaving a lasting imprint on both residents and visitors alike. Their creation will not only enhance the physical environment but also enrich the spiritual and cultural experience of all who frequent the library's courtyard.

This call for artists underscores the Nashville Public Library's commitment to preserving history, fostering creativity, and fostering community engagement. By restoring the historic fountain and commissioning a significant sculpture (or sculptures), the library is poised to reclaim its role as a beacon of inspiration and civic pride in the heart of Nashville. Together, through this collaborative effort, they aim to bring the courtyard back to life—a place where the past meets the present, and where imagination knows no bounds.

Click here to watch our Youtube Video!

Common Questions 

Q: Can I include more than one sculpture in my proposal?

A: Yes! We encourage artists to think creatively, that means more than one sculpture can be included in their proposal. 

Q: Where would the sculpture(s) be installed in the courtyard?

A: There are 8 orange highlighted areas in the courtyard where the artist has the opportunity to install sculptures. Click the site plan image to see the blueprint of the courtyard!

Q: If climbing plants are included in my proposal, am I responsible for installing said plants?

A: A third party will be installing any climbing plant material. 

Q: Is there a specific theme I should follow when creating my proposal?

A: The theme should align with concepts of storytelling and community. 

Q: I'm an international sculpture artist, can I apply my proposal?

A: Yes! We welcome all artists to submit their ideas.

Q: How tall can my sculpture design(s) be?

A: 15 feet tall.

Application Requirements

Please provide a detailed description of your proposed sculpture design, addressing the following points. All applications should include the following:

Concept: Describe the artistic concept and inspiration behind your proposed sculpture(s) and how it relates to the Nashville Public Library.

Design: Outline the physical characteristics and dimensions of the sculpture(s). How will it interact with the adjacent fountain and courtyard environment?

Location: Identify the location(s) where the art is to be placed. 

Materials: Specify the materials you intend to use for the sculpture(s). How do these materials contribute to the overall aesthetic and longevity of the artwork?

Lighting Integration: If applicable, describe how your sculpture design incorporates or interacts with lighting elements. How will lighting enhance the sculpture's visual impact during both day and night?

Maintenance and Durability: Explain how your sculpture design addresses considerations for maintenance and durability in a public outdoor space.

Timeline: Outline your estimated time to commission the artwork.


Sketch / Rendering: Must include images of the proposed concept that would embrace the concept of shade in the courtyard and become a possible infrastructure for climbing plant material. Five (5) or more images are required.


Images: Submit five (5) to fifteen (15) images of artworks completed within the past five years. All artwork images must be examples demonstrating the artist is capable of creating and commissioning durable artwork adequate for the outdoor elements (i.e., sun, sand, wind, water) and a public setting. Images of current artwork must include annotated descriptions. Please include: art title, date the art was created, dimensions, type of media, and location of the installation (address, city, state). For team application, please indicate the lead artist for each project.

Artist Resumé: Upload a current resume, no more than two pages in length. If applying as a team, please submit one résumé for the team, with no more than one page per team member.



Online Portfolio: If you have a website and/or active social media accounts, please provide links.


Artwork Fee / Budget Proposal: Provide the total fee for the artwork(s), (the “all in” budget) including all costs associated with the creation and installation of the artwork(s). This includes, but is not limited to artist fees, materials, travel, labor costs for artist and assistants, insurance, design, fabrication, travel and transportation, freight/shipment, loading and unloading costs, structural engineering design calculations, shipping, and installation.


Structural Engineering Design: Depending on the artwork type, a structural engineer may be required for the art piece. The artist is responsible for obtaining services of a licensed structural engineer. Cost for services of a structural engineer shall be borne by the artist and included in the cost of the proposed art.

Eligibility Criteria

• The call is open to all professional artists/artist teams over the age of 18.
• Artists must demonstrate that they have successfully completed similar works in the past when submitting their qualifications.
• Entries not meeting eligibility requirements will be withdrawn from consideration.
• There is no charge for artists to apply. Applications that are mailed, faxed, or hand-delivered will not be considered, as this is an online system.