Public Art Installation at Obama Main Library
St. Petersburg seeks artists to create exterior public art for the new President Barack Obama Main Library. Deadline: December 17, 2025.
The City of St. Petersburg is inviting artists to create an exterior public art installation for the newly renovated President Barack Obama Main Library, located at 3745 9th Ave. N. near Jorgensen Lake. This is an opportunity to contribute to a significant civic landmark that celebrates the city's vibrant arts community.
The selected artwork must have a minimum 25-year lifespan and reflect President Barack Obama's legacy and powerful oratory. The City particularly encourages proposals that include an audio component, though all electronic and audio elements must be adaptable to future technology platforms. The artwork should be created with durable materials capable of withstanding sun, wind, humidity, salt air, heavy rain, and temperature extremes typical of the Florida environment.
The installation should honor Obama's role as the nation's first Black president and highlight the importance of learning and education. All designs must complement the library's architecture, scale, and character to create a cohesive civic space.
Artists must reside in the contiguous United States or Washington, D.C., and demonstrate professional experience with public, gallery, or museum artwork. Applicants must also show experience designing, fabricating, and installing integrated art. The City strongly encourages St. Petersburg-based artists to apply. A project committee will review submissions and select four finalists in January 2026. Selected finalists will present their concepts to the committee in April 2026.