Yokna Sculpture Trail - Call for Artists
Oxford announces open call for large-scale outdoor sculptures for the Yokna Sculpture Trail public art program. No entry fee.
The city of Oxford, the University of Mississippi, and the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council are seeking submissions for the Yokna Sculpture Trail, an outdoor public art program featuring 15-20 large-scale sculptures installed across Oxford's campus and community locations. This is an excellent opportunity for sculptors to display their work in prominent public spaces.
The Yokna Sculpture Trail rotates approximately half of its works each year on a staggered two-year exhibition schedule. Selected sculptures for the 2026 cycle will be displayed from April 15, 2026, through March 1, 2028. Exhibition sites include Pat Lamar Park (9 sculpture pads), the Powerhouse Sculpture Garden (4 pads), the UM Sculpture Park (3 pads), and the University of Mississippi Museum (3 pads).
Artists may submit up to three existing works created within the past five years. All sculptures must be suitable for long-term outdoor display, constructed of durable materials, require no maintenance during the exhibition period, and be securely mounted for public safety. Works must remain on loan for the full exhibition term.
Selected artists will receive a $3,000 honorarium per sculpture to offset transportation and related costs. A selection committee composed of representatives from the city of Oxford, the University of Mississippi, the University Museum, and the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council will review digital submissions. Artists will be notified of selections by February 10, 2026.
There is no entry fee, and submissions are open to artists 18 years of age or older. The application deadline is January 19, 2026.