2027 Dumke Arts Plaza call for temporary outdoor public art

Weber State University (WSU), in partnership with Ogden city, seeks proposals for temporary outdoor public art for Dumke Arts Plaza in Ogden, Utah.

Proposals sought for temporary, 6-month loan of artwork to Weber State University/Ogden city. Existing artwork and site-specific installations built on site are welcome.

Dumke Arts Plaza is part of a lively downtown arts area called the Nine Rails Creative District, a revitalized historical neighborhood with galleries, restaurants, and boutique shops. It is an attraction for thousands of locals and tourists. 

Dumke Arts Plaza is a two-tiered public square with two large and two small sculpture pads and a 9 x 5 ft. LED screen. The Plaza has power, a sound system, and capacity for projections and hanging work across the plaza. Sculptural installations rotate twice per year, in April and October. Proposals should be for a series of four sculptures or a site-specific installation and can include a video component. 

Sculpture pads have embedded dimmable lights and steel channels for tack weld construction. Work must be secured by welding, done by contractors. Dimensions are:

• pad A: irregular trapezoid (33’ x 16’9” x 23’2” x 28’5”), max 100 psf
• pad B: irregular pentagon (10’ x 18’11” x 9’4” x 14’11” x 23’9”), max 1500 psf
• pads C and D: two 4’6” squares, max weight 5,000 lbs. each

Sculpture may extend beyond the sculpture pads, subject to technical approval. Work can be constructed over several days. Possibility for de-installation to be completed by contractors.

Included:

• fabrication and installation assistance
• logistical support, including help sourcing and purchasing materials
• on-site storage

Selection will be based on artistic merit, suitability, and feasibility of project. Preference given to site-responsive experiential work that engages the public. 

Artworks must withstand 24/7 public access and all kinds of weather. Works are fully insured during run of exhibition. Installation assistance provided. 

Artist will give a public talk. 

WSU hosts events at the Plaza such as dance and theatre performances, an evening art market, silent disco, and food trucks. Proposals with related programming (performances, movies, workshops) are encouraged but not required. Programming costs are covered. 

$35,000 budget includes:

• honorarium
• fabrication costs
• shipping of artwork to and from Ogden
• rental of necessary equipment (telehandler, forklift, etc.)
• transportation for artist(s) to and from Ogden to oversee installation and de-installation
• accommodations and meals

SCHEDULE

March 12, 2027: proposal deadline for October 2027–April 2028 installations

April 1, 2027: notification sent to artists

October 17–28, 2027: installation

October 29, 2027: public opening and artist talk

April 2028: de-installation

Proposals accepted on a rolling basis for future installations.

Proposal should include 3-dimensional work for at least the two large sculpture pads. 

Include dimensions and weight of each work.

Artists should submit:

• resume/CV with links to website or social media accounts
• 500 word max biography
• artist statement
• 3-4 images of proposed work (photos, video, sketches, 3D renderings) with short written description
• portfolio (3-4 images) of past work including title, year, medium, dimensions, weight, current location
• installation plan/schedule: how many days, necessary tools/equipment/materials and assistance required

Call is open to artists worldwide over 18 years old. Proposals encouraged from artists whose work engages the general public and the unique layout of Dumke Arts Plaza. 

Selection is made by an advisory committee comprised of individuals from Weber State University, Ogden city, and the arts community.