Call Description

Public Sculpture Open Call

Dairy Arts Center – Palmer Terrace
2026–2027 Installation Cycle

The Dairy Arts Center’s Visual Arts Program invites artists to submit proposals for individual sculptural works to be installed on the Palmer Terrace, an outdoor site located at the front of the Dairy Arts Center in Boulder, Colorado.

This open call seeks sculptures that engage audiences in a dynamic outdoor setting and contribute to the Dairy’s role as a vibrant cultural hub. Selected works will be presented as part of the Dairy’s rotating outdoor sculpture program during the 2026–2027 season.

The Dairy’s Visual Arts Program presents contemporary art that sparks dialogue, fosters community engagement, and reflects the diversity of artistic voices in Colorado and beyond. Outdoor sculptures on the Palmer Terrace provide an opportunity for artists to connect with visitors in a highly visible public space at the entrance to the building.

Installation Details

Selected sculptures will be installed for a period of eight to twelve weeks. Installations are scheduled throughout the year in coordination with the Dairy’s visual arts exhibitions and public programs.

The sculpture site on the Palmer Terrace consists of an area approximately 67 x 70 inches, filled with small pebbles. Works must fit within this footprint and comply with a maximum height of 7.5 feet.

Artist Stipend

Selected artists will receive an honorarium, dependent on the exhibition budget for each installation cycle.

Artwork Requirements

• Proposed works must meet the following criteria:
• Suitable for outdoor display
• Able to withstand weather and environmental conditions
• Fit within the 67 x 70 inch footprint
• Not exceed 7.5 feet in height
• Safe for public presentation in an open-access environment

Because the terrace is accessible to the public, sculptures should be structurally stable and designed for safe installation in an outdoor setting.

Artist Responsibilities

If selected, the artist (or their representative) is responsible for:

• Delivery of the artwork to the Dairy Arts Center
• Removal of the artwork at the end of the display period

The Dairy Arts Center will provide installation support and equipment where possible, in coordination with the artist.

Please note that the Dairy Arts Center is not responsible for damage caused by weather or environmental conditions during the exhibition period.

Timeline

Submission deadline: June 1

Notification of selected artists: within one month of the call closing

Application Requirements

All applications must be made through the CaFE platform.

Artists may submit up to three sculptures for consideration, but each work must be submitted as a separate application.

Applications should include:

• Artist statement or biography
• Description of the proposed sculpture
• Images of the artwork (or proposal renderings): Submit at least 2 and up to 10 work samples (any media accepted, including a combination of video, audio, and images).
• Dimensions, materials, and installation requirements

Eligibility Criteria

All applicable mediums are welcome, and artists at all career stages are encouraged to apply.

Artists over 18 years of age are eligible to apply (younger artists may apply with parental permission, please reach out to stella@thedairy.org for more details)

Works must be original, no recreations will be considered (unless conceptually grounded within exhibition)

Artists must live and be able to transport artwork from within in the United States 

• Application Type:
  • Applications may be submitted for an individual artist or a group of artists/collective.
  • If applying as a collective, submit one consolidated application
  • Each artist or group may submit one application.
  • Applications may include up to 10 images for consideration (any media accepted) and must submit a minimum of 2 work samples.
  • Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit a cohesive body of work that best represents their artistic vision.