Brantford Public Art: 150th Anniversary of Telephone
City of Brantford seeks Canadian artists for $135,000 public artwork commission to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the telephone invention.
The City of Brantford has issued a call for Canadian artists to create a new public artwork or series of artworks honoring the 150th anniversary of the telephone invention. This exciting opportunity offers a $135,000 project budget covering all costs directly associated with the artwork. The commissioned piece will be permanently installed in Alexandra Park, with fabrication beginning in January 2026 and installation scheduled later that year. This is a two-stage, open competition facilitated by STEPS Public Art, a Canadian charity specializing in public art projects. The selection process involves a panel of practicing arts professionals and community members who will evaluate applications based on artistic excellence, relevant experience, and demonstrated ability to create innovative, engaging public artwork that complements the community context. A unique mentorship component is included, where a local emerging artist will be selected by the City of Brantford to serve as an assistant during fabrication and installation phases. Artists will be shortlisted and selected through a combination of scoring criteria and panel deliberation. Only Canadian artists or artist teams are eligible to apply. Applications require submission through the STEPS Public Art website, with proposals not requested during the initial Stage 1 selection process. The opportunity focuses on creating meaningful public art that celebrates this significant telecommunications milestone while enhancing the local community space.
Submission Guidelines
Canadian artists/artist teams only. Submit application form through STEPS Public Art website. Proposals not requested at Stage 1. Applications reviewed based on artistic excellence, relevant experience, and ability to create innovative public artwork complementary to community context.
How to Apply
1. Step 1: Visit stepspublicart.org/project/brantford-public-art to access the application form
2. Step 2: Prepare portfolio materials demonstrating artistic excellence and relevant public art experience
3. Step 3: Submit complete application before September 28, 2025, 11:59 PM EST deadline
Application & Contact
Application URL: https://stepspublicart.org/project/brantford-public-art
Contact: collin@stepspublicart.org (Collin Zipp), Project details at Brantford.ca/Bell150Sculpture
Source: https://www.brantbeacon.ca/city-looking-for-artists-to-honour-anniversary-of-telephone/