Obama Presidential Center Artist Commissions
The Obama Presidential Center in Chicago has announced nine new artist commissions for its 19.3-acre campus opening in spring 2026.
The Obama Presidential Center in Chicago has announced nine new commissions by 10 artists for its 19.3-acre campus scheduled to open next spring. Six commissions are designated for the OPC's eight-story Museum building in Jackson Park, including works by prominent artists such as Jenny Holzer, Nick Cave, Kiki Smith, and others. Featured works include Jack Pierson's text-based 'HOPE' sculpture in the entry pavilion, Kiki Smith's bronze 'Receive' in the Hope & Change lobby, and a collaborative textile-and-sound installation by Nick Cave and Marie Watt titled 'This Land, Shared Sky' combining Indigenous and Black traditions. Jenny Holzer will create a text-based piece drawing from FBI files on the Freedom Riders for the building's Skyroom. Additional works will be placed throughout the campus, including Aliza Nisenbaum's mural in the Library's main reading room and Alison Saar's bronze sculpture in the Women's Garden. These new commissions join five previously announced works by Lindsay Adams, Spencer Finch, Richard Hunt, Maya Lin, and Julie Mehretu. The OPC plans to have more than 25 site-specific artist commissions by opening. According to founding director Louise Bernard, each commission is 'a meditation on civic life' addressing themes of resilience, memory, identity, and hope.
How to Apply
1. Step 1: This appears to be an announcement of completed selections rather than an open opportunity
2. Step 2: Monitor the Obama Presidential Center's official website for future commission opportunities
3. Step 3: Follow the center's announcements for potential future artist collaboration opportunities
Application & Contact
Source: https://www.artnews.com/art-news/news/obama-presidential-center-artist-commissions-jenny-holzer-nick-cave-1234751585/