The City of Salisbury invites artists and artist teams to submit qualifications for a permanent public sculpture or installation to be located at the northwest corner of Salisbury City Park. The selected work should reflect themes of community engagement, accessibility, and interactivity, offering a welcoming and inclusive experience for residents and visitors alike.
Project Overview
This installation is part of the City’s vision to strengthen the visual and experiential link between Salisbury City Park, the Zoo, and Downtown Salisbury. The site is adjacent to a high-traffic pedestrian area near a playground and river, making it ideal for a large-scale, hands-on sculpture that can withstand the elements and promote curiosity, creativity, and a strong sense of place.
Budget & Support
The project is supported by a Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) Planning Grant, with a $30,000 MSAC Implementation Grant targeted for the selected proposal. This total budget must cover design, materials, fabrication, installation, and artist fees. The City may assist with site prep and basic infrastructure such as electric service if needed.
Artist Stipend
Five (5) semi-finalists will be selected to receive a $1,000 stipend each to develop more in-depth proposals including:
- Physical model
- Material samples
- Detailed renderings
- Artist statement and installation plan
Finalist proposals will be reviewed with community input, and the winning artist/team will proceed to contract and installation.
Eligibility
- Open to individual artists, artist teams, and students/emerging artists.
- Maryland residents (i.e., owning or renting residential property in Maryland six months before the application’s submission and throughout the funded project or program) who are 18 or older.
Project Goals
- Create a site-specific work that is engaging and interactive for visitors of all ages.
- Promote accessibility, community pride, and connection between Downtown Salisbury and City Park.
- Use durable, low-maintenance materials that withstand year-round exposure and physical engagement
Key Dates
- RFQ Opens: August 7, 2025
- Application Deadline: September 12, 2025
- Top 5 Semi-Finalists Selected: October 3, 2025
- Semi-Finalist Presentations: November 7, 2025
- Final Selection and Contract: November 10, 2025
Submission Requirements
Please include:
- Resume or CV (for each artist if a team)
- Up to 3 images of previous work (with description: title, year, materials, dimensions, location)
- Letter of interest (1–2 pages) describing your approach to public art, community interaction, and why you’re interested in this project
- Contact information (email, phone, website/socials if applicable)
Learn More: For more information, details about the site, or to view the park location, visit:
www.salisbury.md
To apply, visit this link here: