Call Description

A region-wide celebration of art, culture, and connection. As Kansas City steps onto the global stage, this initiative will bolster tourism activities, events, and attractions across the region. It is our moment to show not only America, but the world, who has the largest hearts on the planet. Through pride in our communities, the richness of our cultures, and a deeply woven sense of purpose and connection, Parade of Hearts invites cities and counties across two states to come together in a shared artistic experience that celebrates unity, diversity, and resilience like no other.

The New Heart Sculpture
This bold new form reflects the spirit of the Kansas City region. It is larger, more open, and more unified than ever. At its center, a keyhole-shaped heart symbolizes connection and creativity. Encircled by a ring of unity, the design invites us to look inward while celebrating the strength we share across communities. It is a canvas for expression and a symbol of belonging, ready for each artist to make their own.

Our hearts are open to one another, to our neighbors, and to all who arrive feeling the heartbeat, spirit, and unmatched generosity of the heartland.

Application Requirements

Design Template Reference
The heart template provided below must be used as a reference when preparing your Side 1, Side 2, and base design images. It ensures consistent understanding of size, scale, and aspect ratio for jury review. While your design does not need to be placed within the template, it should follow the dimensions and proportions shown.

This template should also guide any additions or modifications to the sculpture. All added elements must remain within the appropriate scale of the original form and be safe for public display. Designs that exceed size expectations or disregard structural proportions may be disqualified.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply

• Open to artists who currently live in or were raised in the Kansas City region
• Artists of all ages, experience levels and backgrounds are encouraged to apply
• Up to 150 designs will be selected to reflect the region’s diversity and identity
• Previous Parade of Hearts participants are eligible to apply again
• Artist teams or collectives are permitted but must designate a single lead artist for all communications, agreements, and stipend payment

Submission Requirements

• Only one design submission per artist or team
• Must include signed Artist Agreement and acknowledgment of Guidelines
• No logos, advertising, or unapproved modifications allowed
• Use of religious, political, or sexual imagery is prohibited
• All designs are reviewed by an independent, professional jury

Ownership & Rights

• Parade of Hearts (POH) retains full ownership and reproduction rights of finished sculptures
• Artists retain copyright of original artwork
• Artists may not reproduce or sell the KC Heart design or sculpture form without written POH approval
• Rejected design concepts remain the property of the artist
• POH reserves the right to relocate sculptures during the display period or at its discretion

Stipend & Delivery

• $2,500 total stipend per selected artist
• $1,500 issued at sculpture pickup
• $750 issued upon approved delivery of completed design
• Final $250 issued in early September 2026 following approved touchups
• Artists are responsible for all transportation, pickup, and return of the sculpture
• Sculptures must be delivered between January 21 and February 7, 2026, please plan accordingly

Design Execution

• Final sculpture must match approved submitted design
• Unauthorized changes will result in immediate disqualification and removal from program
• Progress photos may be requested to ensure design compliance

Sculpture Specifications

• Fiberglass sculpture during the design phase, approximately 75 lbs
• Primed white and delivered unmounted for artist execution
• Dimensions: approximately 60 inches wide, 60 inches tall, and 32 inches deep
• Once installed for public display, the sculpture is mounted on a base filled with over 300 lbs of sand for stability
• Total installed weight for public display is approximately 400 lbs

Design Template Reference for Modifications
Artists must use the official heart template as a reference for size, scale, and aspect ratio when creating their design. This reference also applies to any proposed structural additions or modifications. All added elements must remain within the visual and dimensional proportions of the original sculpture and be safe for public display. Any submission that exceeds those proportions or presents safety concerns will be disqualified.

Handling & Safety Recommendations

• The fiberglass sculpture is lightweight but top-heavy and can easily tip over if not properly secured during transport or while working
• Use caution when handling the sculpture at all times
• Artists should use safety straps, non-slip surfaces, or stabilizing supports, especially if children or pets are nearby
• Under no circumstances should anyone stand, climb, or sit on the sculpture
• Fiberglass is durable but fragile if dropped, struck, or mishandled
• Damage due to improper handling may result in removal from the program

Medium & Surface Requirements

• Acrylic paint is strongly recommended
• Oil paint is discouraged
• Papier-mâché, fabric, or similar fragile or degradable materials are not permitted

Surface Preparation & Final Coating
Each sculpture is delivered primed white. Artists are responsible for surface inspection and may re-prime if needed for their specific design. Parade of Hearts will apply the final protective clear coat. Artists must not apply any topcoat or sealant.

Final clear coat will be applied by Parade of Hearts; artists must not apply their own

Additions & Alterations

• Keyhole heart shape must remain at least 25% visible
• Added elements must be secure and able to withstand winds up to 60 mph
• All seams and openings must be sealed to prevent water and pest intrusion
• Artists must account for mold, water retention, and deterioration risks
• Fragile or unsafe materials will not be accepted

Design Integrity
The submitted design must be final. No changes or modifications of any kind will be permitted after submission. Artists are required to execute their sculpture exactly as submitted and approved. Any deviation from the approved design will result in immediate removal from the program.

Display & Durability

• Sculptures will be displayed outdoors in all weather conditions
• Design must be durable, touch-safe, and suitable for long-term public exposure
• Artists are expected to attend public and private launch events held on April 4, 2026

Artist Availability
All selected artists must remain available throughout the entire program timeline. This includes the production period, public display, and post-exhibition restoration and touch-up process prior to auction. Failure to comply with touch-up or restoration requirements may affect future participation.