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 entrance 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.
Applications Open: March 10, 2026
Application Deadline: June 1, 2026
All applications must be submitted through the CaFE form.
Installation Details
Selected sculptures will be installed for a period of eight to twelve weeks, with installations 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 × 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 × 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 must 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.
Submission Guidelines
All applications must be submitted 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
- Dimensions, materials, and installation requirements
Applicants must submit at least 2 and up to 10 work samples. Any media is accepted, including a combination of video, audio, and images.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit a cohesive body of work that best represents their artistic vision.
Eligibility
- Artists 18 years or older are eligible to apply
- Artists under 18 may apply with parental permission (please contact stella@thedairy.org for details)
- Artists must live in and be able to transport artwork from within the United States
- Works must be original (recreations will not be considered unless conceptually grounded within the exhibition)
Applications may be submitted by:
- Individual artists
- Artist groups or collectives
If applying as a collective, submit one consolidated application.
Timeline
Submission deadline: June 1
Notification of selected artists: within one month of the call closing
About the Dairy Arts Center
The Dairy Arts Center is a multidisciplinary arts organization located in Boulder, Colorado. Our Visual Arts Program presents exhibitions across five galleries as well as outdoor and public art installations. The program highlights innovative, socially engaged, and conceptually driven artwork by local, regional, and national artists.
Outdoor sculpture installations expand the reach of the program beyond gallery walls, creating opportunities for visitors to encounter art in everyday public space.