call for applications: belmont fieldhouse & library
Calgary Arts Development invites local, national and international mid-career public artists and artist collectives to apply for the opportunity to create new public artworks at the Belmont Fieldhouse and Library, which is currently under construction. This multi-use facility will be part of a community hub that will include a future multi-amenity recreation facility, if future funding allows.
This public art opportunity consists of four artwork panels at four positions along the south side of the building. Each panel measures 12.8 metres (42 feet) wide by 4.57 metres (15 feet) and will be attached to the building’s south-facing exterior.
We will select one artist/artist collective for this opportunity. A selection committee will shortlist four applicants and invite them for interviews. Shortlisted candidates will be required to provide two professional references before the final selection. The selected artist will develop and refine an original artwork, with support from both Calgary Arts Development and City of Calgary project teams. This process is expected to take place throughout 2026, with final installation scheduled for summer 2027. Selected artists must be able to meet the expectations of the proposed production schedule.
While the artist will have creative agency over the artwork concept, they must remain open and flexible regarding creative and practical considerations involved in creating an artwork. The selected artist is responsible for managing the artist budget, which includes design and fabrication of the panels. The specific engineering and fabrication approach will depend on the artist’s proposed method for creating the artwork.
This project aims to facilitate the creation of artwork that will strengthen Belmont’s community identity, foster civic pride and create inclusive spaces. The project will also reinforce the community’s sense of ownership while contributing to spaces that feel dynamic and inspiring.
The resulting artwork will be accessioned into the City of Calgary Public Art Collection.
Project Goals
Calgary Arts Development intends for the selected artist/artist collective to develop public artwork that:
Is informed by artist-led research into the specific context and history of the Belmont community.
Considers all potential perspectives, sightlines and interactions related to the ways people engage with the work.
Thoughtfully considers the space around the building’s wall and the relationships between the four artworks.
Considers Calgary’s variable climate and the south-facing aspect of this location.
Delivers a lasting artwork that will not require significant maintenance or upkeep over a 25-year lifespan.
Contributes to the public art landscape of Calgary.
Contributes to the Calgary Public Art Collection in a way that reflects a city defined by growth, vibrancy and diverse lived experiences.