Philomath Public Art Program - Call for Artists
Submit sculptures for downtown Philomath display. $1,500 honorarium per piece. Applications open February 2, 2026.
The City of Philomath is launching a public art program to display rotating sculptures on concrete plinths installed throughout downtown as part of the Downtown Philomath Safety and Streetscape Improvements Project. The initial phase will feature four to six sculptures across multiple downtown locations, with potential for expansion.
The program seeks freestanding sculptures suitable for outdoor display. Key specifications include: maximum height of 10 feet, weight capacity up to 1,000 pounds (heavier pieces may be considered based on installation capabilities), and two-year lease agreements with the city.
Selected artists will receive a $1,500 honorarium per sculpture. Initial installation sites include plinths at 10th and Applegate, 13th and Applegate, 14th and Main, 13th and Main, 11th and Main, and mid-block between the Philomath Museum and Philomath Fire and Rescue on Main Street.
The program is open to artists from Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Nevada, and Alaska. While all qualified artists are welcome to apply, the city will give preference to local artists and sculptures reflecting themes of natural beauty, history, timber heritage, or other elements relevant to Philomath.
The call for artists will be published February 2, 2026, with applications due March 3, 2026. Selected finalists will be notified in late March, with installation required by mid-June 2026. The city plans to promote the opportunity through various channels to reach potential participants across the region.