Westfield Underground Railroad Art Installation Call
City of Westfield seeks artists for $250,000 light-based interactive public art installation honoring Underground Railroad history.
The City of Westfield is commissioning a major public art installation with a $250,000 all-inclusive budget to honor the city's historical ties to the Underground Railroad. The installation will be located at the Jersey 32 mixed-use development on the northwest corner of Ind. 32 and Poplar Street/Westfield Boulevard in downtown Westfield. The city seeks experienced artists or teams to create a large-scale, light-based, interactive public artwork that serves as a central feature and meaningful destination for residents and visitors. The installation should reflect Westfield's Quaker heritage and role in the Underground Railroad, which was part of the central route through Indiana. Historically, Westfield had eight documented Underground Railroad stations, though historians believe there may have been more. The artwork must be immersive and visually engaging during both day and night, celebrating the city's welcoming culture while honoring its historical significance. The comprehensive budget covers all project aspects including artist fees, materials, design, fabrication, transportation, installation, permits, taxes, insurance, soil analysis, engineering, lodging, travel, and community engagement. This collaboration with GANGGANG, a cultural development firm focusing on beauty, equity, and culture in cities, emphasizes the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. The project timeline extends to November 2027 for installation completion.