The City of Olathe is seeking large-scale, three-dimensional sculpture entries or temporary art installations. Olathe's Outdoor Sculpture Series plays a key role in furthering Olathe’s vision to build its community identity, activate public spaces, and foster connections through art. Public art serves as a powerful tool to tell Olathe’s stories, engage residents and visitors, and offer interactive, meaningful 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. We encourage submissions of colorful sculptures and may give preference to pieces that incorporate vibrant colors. A total of 7-9 sculptures will be selected by the committee for the exhibit, with one sculpture receiving the "People's Choice" designation, chosen by the community through a public vote.

Important Dates
January 2, 2025 - Entries must be received
February 27, 2025 - Notice of selections sent to artists
May 30, 2025 - Art delivery deadline
June 1, 2025 - Exhibition opens
May 1, 2026 - 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 May 30, 2025. 
• Artists must reclaim their sculpture by May 1, 2026. 

The 2025 Exhibit will be juried by an Art Selection Panel comprised of Olathe Public Art Committee members and City of Olathe staff. One sculpture may be selected through a public voting process. 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.