GLEAM: 2027 Request for Proposals

Olbrich Botanical Gardens invites proposals for temporary, large scale, light-based artwork for GLEAM, a public art exhibition situated within a 16-acre Midwest landscape and 10,000 sq ft tropical conservatory. The 2027 GLEAM exhibit will focus on light-based artworks that present an enchanting environment, create delight and connection through playful interactions, and energize the Gardens’ landscape with illuminated motion! GLEAM will be open for public viewing from August 28-October 23, 2027. 

Olbrich Botanical Gardens is located in Madison, Wisconsin. Named for its founder, Michael B. Olbrich, the Gardens are owned and operated jointly by the City of Madison Parks Division and the non-profit Olbrich Botanical Society. Olbrich Botanical Gardens’ mission is to enrich lives and inspire people to live in harmony with the natural world. In 2015, the GLEAM exhibition was created and curated to showcase the beauty of the Gardens at night, expand public art opportunities in Madison in a unique natural setting, and offer programming that would appeal to a broad demographic of community members and attract future supporters.

Selection Process & Timeline

Selection & Development
Mid-February 2027- Notification of finalists via email
February/March 2027 - Proposal development and agreement negotiation/completion 
April 19, 2027 - Final proposal deadline closes at 11:59 p.m. (CST)

Install - Exhibit - Dismantle
August 4-24, 2027 - Exhibit install
August 28, 2027 - Opening viewing
September 1–October 23, 2027 - GLEAM exhibition duration 
October 25-29 & November 1-5, 2027 - De-install of artwork