Downtown Racine Public Art Project 2026
25th annual public art project seeking 24 artists to create oversized postcards celebrating Racine's landmarks and culture.
Downtown Racine Corporation is calling for artists to participate in the 25th anniversary of the annual Public Art Project, transforming downtown Racine into an open-air art gallery. This year's theme is "Greetings from Racine," featuring oversized postcards fabricated in wood and metal that will be displayed from Memorial Day weekend through mid-September.
The project seeks 24 artists to bring giant postcards to life. The postcard format invites artists to creatively interpret Racine's iconic landmarks, neighborhoods, history, and culture. Selected artists will collaborate with fabricators from Gateway Technical College's welding and woodworking programs, whose students will construct the postcard structures.
According to Kelly Kruse, Downtown Racine Corporation's executive director, "This year's postcard theme creates a unique opportunity for artists to work at a large scale while telling Racine's story. These pieces become interactive destinations—sparking creativity, encouraging people to explore downtown and capturing moments through photography and social media—before ultimately finding new homes through our end-of-season art auction."
The collaboration with Gateway Technical College allows students to apply their skills in a real-world setting while contributing something meaningful to the community. This partnership builds professionalism, pride, and confidence while demonstrating the power of creative collaboration.
Artists of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The postcard format provides a distinctive opportunity to work at a large scale while telling Racine's unique story through visual art. These installations become interactive destinations that spark creativity and encourage community engagement.
Applications are available at www.racinedowntown.com or 245 Main Street. The deadline for submissions is March 14.