route 66 public art trail
Overview and Project Description
Artists and artist teams are invited to submit qualifications for the design and installation of artwork for an Oklahoma Art in Public Places project located in Catoosa, Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Arts Council (OAC), in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT), is seeking an artist or a collaborative artist team to create an artwork along the roadway of Route 66. The public artwork will be situated in a highly visible, accessible location where visitors can experience the work from the roadway and up close. The proposed area for the artwork is Gazebo Park, located between Route 66 and Cherokee Street, off the right of way on Antry Drive.
Theme and Intent
Envisioned for this project is a monumental scale artwork that celebrates the history and people of Catoosa with a unique and thoughtful design. The proposed artwork should reflect the spirit of Catoosa and seek to capture the interest and imagination of residents and travelers on Route 66.
Artists are encouraged to consider the many layers that have shaped Catoosa, including connections to tribal nations, transportation and trade, waterways, agriculture and industry, roadside culture, and the movement of people across the American landscape. Inspiration could be drawn from local history, the Verdigris River and the Port of Catoosa, or broader themes of travel on Route 66.
The artwork shall be an original creation, designed for outdoor installation and built to endure all weather conditions. It should enhance the Route 66 corridor by providing a memorable aesthetic experience that is both highly visible and interesting to visitors.
Timeline
Notification of selected semifinalists July 30, 2026
Mandatory finalist orientation session August 14, 2026, 1:30 p.m. (CDT)
Semifinalist Artist presentations September 15, 2026, 1:00 p.m. (CDT)
Oversight Committee Late September 2026
Anticipated notification of selected artists September 30, 2026
Anticipated installation of artwork August 2027