call for artists: functional art at sandy spring museum
Sandy Spring Museum is creating a growing collection of permanent functional artworks that will shape the visitor experience across our campus for years to come. Selected works will become part of a long-term cultural landscape initiative that combines public art, environmental stewardship, and regional storytelling. We are seeking artists who are excited to create highly visible functional artworks that invite interaction while celebrating the people and traditions of Montgomery County.
As part of its Master Plan, Sandy Spring Museum is transforming its grounds into a campus where visitors discover cultural heritage, nature, and community through a network of walking trails and gathering spaces. We are seeking proposals from artists interested in creating functional artworks inspired by the stories, traditions, landscapes, agricultural history, immigrant communities, and living cultural heritage of the Sandy Spring region and Montgomery County.
Functional art may include seating, gathering spaces, bike racks, interpretive elements, trail features, landscape structures, or other artworks that combine artistic expression with everyday use. We are particularly interested in works that visitors will encounter while walking on the new trails.
Artist and Project Selection
Selection of artists for Phase II will be based on experience with similar projects and artistic qualifications that demonstrate an ability to successfully complete the project. We encourage applications from underrepresented artists.
The final artwork must be designed for permanent outdoor installation with minimal ongoing maintenance. It must be safe for public use and fully functional for its intended purpose.
Phase I does not require a developed design, drawings, renderings, fabrication plans, or a project budget. We are interested in learning about your artistic practice, relevant experience, connection to the region, and preliminary thinking about functional art for the Museum campus.
Applications will be reviewed by the Museum’s Master Plan Committee. Decisions of the committee are final.
Selection will be based on the following:
Artistic excellence
Experience completing public art projects
Ability to create durable outdoor work
Interest in local history and culture
Approach to community engagement
Feasibility