Exciting news for artists in Central Florida! The Orange County Administration Center is hosting its 12th annual Sculpture on the Lawn, a wonderful public art opportunity organized by the Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs and the Public Art Review Board. This initiative invites artists to submit proposals for an outdoor sculpture exhibition that will be prominently displayed at the center’s entrance in Orlando, where an estimated 10,000 visitors pass by each day.
This call for artists is open to professional sculptors, students, and emerging artists who specialize in the design, fabrication, and installation of outdoor sculptures. Whether you’re an established artist or just starting out, this is a chance to showcase your work in a highly visible venue.
Submission Guidelines
Artists can submit up to five separate applications, with each sculpture proposal needing to be entered as an individual submission. The sculptures must meet specific requirements: a minimum height of 6 feet and a base that fits within a 12′ x 12′ footprint. There is no maximum height limit, allowing for some creative freedom!
<pWhen submitting your application, you’ll need to provide at least three images of your work, with a maximum of five. These can be photographs of completed pieces or conceptual designs. If you choose to send conceptual images, be sure to include additional details to clarify what the final look will be, along with confirmation that the piece can be completed and installed as proposed. Remember, all submissions must be made electronically through CaFÉ, and any artist names or watermarks should be removed from your images.
Important Dates and Fees
The deadline for submissions is quickly approaching—mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM EDT. Up to four sculptures will be selected for exhibition, which will run from January 2027 to January 2028. There is a sculpture loan fee of $5,000, so keep that in mind as you plan your submission.
As the most populous county in Central Florida, Orange County boasts over 1.43 million residents and attracts more than 75 million visitors annually. The area includes 13 cities and communities, such as Apopka, Orlando, and Winter Park, making it a vibrant hub for culture and art.
The Role of Public Art
Public art plays a crucial role in enhancing our environment, reflecting the history and culture of a place. The collaboration between artists, communities, and stakeholders is essential for bringing these projects to life. As funding for public art often comes from “Art in Public Places” programs, which allocate a percentage of budgets for art, artists are encouraged to actively seek out opportunities for public art projects.
Examples of public art from around the world range from eye-catching sculptures like Louise Bourgeois’ “Maman” to iconic installations such as Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s “L’Arc de Triomphe, Wrapped.” Artists interested in public art should be prepared to create comprehensive proposals that include project descriptions, budgets, timelines, and visual simulations to effectively communicate their vision.
In conclusion, if you’re an artist looking to make your mark in the community, the Sculpture on the Lawn at the Orange County Administration Center is a fantastic opportunity. Be sure to review all guidelines and prepare your submissions ahead of the deadline!