Deadline 01/16/2026
Call Summary
The city of Dubuque is now soliciting sculpture proposals for cosideration for the 2026-27 Art on the river ppublic art sculpture exhibit, to be held alng the Mississippi Riverwalk in the Port of Dubuque from august 2026 through August 2027. The theme for the 2026-27 exhibit is “Stillness in the Driftless”. Stillness in the Driftless invites artists to explore the quiet strength and reflective beauty of the Driftless landscape. This theme celebrates moments of pause and presence, and how stillness reveals connection, renewal, and belonging within Dubuque’s riverfront environment. The City of Dubuque welcomes proposals for existing and new 3D public artworks that embody this theme through form, texture, and light. Works may interpret stillness and driftless as spiritual, natural, emotional, or communal, encouraging visitors to slow down and engage more deeply with the landscape and with one another. Up to eleven sculptural works will be selected for the 20th edition of this annual temporary public art exhibit. There is no fee to apply and artists can submit completed works or those to be fabricated by the August 2026 install dates. Artists may submit multiple works for consideration; a separate application must be completed for each artwork. Online applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on Friday, January 16, 2026. Selected artists receive an $1,800 stipend for each work included in the exhibition. Additional cash prizes of $1,000 for Best in Show and $200 for People’s Choice are also available. Artworks are encouraged to be for sale as the City makes special efforts to promote purchasing throughout the year.
Project Description
Stillness in the Driftless invites artists to explore he quiet strength and reflective beauty of the Driftless landscape. This theme celebrates moments of pause and presence, and how stillness reveals connection, renewal, and belonging within Dubuque’s riverfront environment.
The City of Dubuque welcomes proposals for existing and new 3D public artworks that embody this theme Through form, texture, and light. Work may interpret stillness and driftless as spiritual, natural, emotional. Or communal, excouraging visitors to slow down and engage more deeply with the landscape and ith one another.
Eligibility
Artists must be over the age of 18.
Sculptures must be suitable tor public display and be able to withstand the adverse weather conditions of the midwest such as high winds, rain,
Timeline*
Applications are due January 16, 2026.
Applicants are notified of acceptance by March 3, 2026
Installations take place August 3-7, 2026
Exhibition Reception is August 8, 2026.
https://www.cityofdubuque.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=6562