Overview
The city of Brookings, Oregon invites qualified artists and artist teams to
submit proposals for a signature sculpture that will serve as a symbolic
Gateway to the Pacific Northwest. The selected artwork will be installed in a
high-profile public location, visible to residents, visitors, and regional
travelers. This project seeks to establish an iconic landmark that reflects the
identity, natural environment, and cultural character of the Pacific Northwest.
Project Vision
Artists are encouraged to interpret “gateway” broadly—literally, symbolically,
or abstractly. The commissioned sculpture should be a welcoming point of
interest, a reason to visit Brookings in itself. The sculpture may embody the
idea of arrival, transition, or passage into the Pacific Northwest. This piece
may also encourage exploration, excitement, appreciation, or joy.
Proposals should draw inspiration from the region’s defining elements, such
as:
– Coastal and ocean landscapes
– Evergreen forests and mountain ranges
– Regional wildlife
– Weather, wind, and water movement
– History, innovation, and a spirit of exploration
The artwork must be fabricated of materials suitable for outdoor display and
capable of withstanding our local extreme weather conditions. Creative
incorporation of light, shadow, negative space, or kinetic elements is
welcome.
Budget: $40,000 to $50,000 is currently allocated for this project.
Size: This sculpture must be at least eight feet tall, with the exact dimensions
left to the artist’s discretion.
Location: This sculpture will be installed and viewable adjacent to highway
101, at the entrance of Brookings, serving as a local and regional landmark.
*Approximate GPS Coordinates: 42.05498843507778, -124.2739069342335
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RjZA2z4dYKM3Eg528
Surroundings:
This site-specific sculpture should serve as a striking focal
point for travelers of Highway 101, inviting the viewer to experience the
wonder of Brookings and our region. While expressing the adventure that
begins here, this installation should stand out against a backdrop of natural
trees, botanical plants and foliage.
Submission Requirements:
– Proposal: A detailed description of the proposed sculpture, including the
artistic vision, symbolic elements, and relevance to the theme.
– Visuals: Sketches, drawings, or digital renderings of the proposed
sculpture.
– Materials and Techniques: A description of the materials to be used and
the fabrication techniques.
– Timeline: An estimated timeline for the creation and installation of the
sculpture.
– Budget: A comprehensive budget, including artist fees, materials,
fabrication, and transportation. Installation managed by Brookings.
– Artist Statement: A brief statement about the artist’s background,
experience with similar projects.
– Portfolio: Examples of previous work, particularly large-scale public art
installations, or sculptures.
Eligibility:
This call is open to all professional artists, with a preference for those with
experience in public art and a connection to, or deep understanding of, the
Pacific Northwest.
Selection Criteria:
– Artistic excellence and originality
– Relevance to the theme and Pacific Northwest context
– Technical feasibility and durability
– Demonstrated experience with large-scale sculptures
– Ability to meet budget and timeline
– Public safety and accessibility considerations
Submission Instructions:
Please submit all materials in digital format to
BrookingsPublicArt@GMail.com with the subject line “Brookings Public Art
Proposal”. All responses should be submitted no later than August 1, 2026.
City-Wide Program Theme:
The Public Art Collaborative is integrating artworks across the city of
Brookings with an overall theme of “The Gateway to the Pacific Northwest”.
This theme should invoke inspiration from all that the Pacific Northwest has to
offer, while positioning Brookings as a starting place for exploration.
Artists are encouraged to highlight regional biodiversity and cultural heritage
through their work. Consider incorporating such elements as the following:
– Rugged coastline and rivers
– Animal life such as pelicans, eagles, bears, elk, deer, whales, otters,
starfish, sea urchins, and other sea creatures
– References to historical peoples and events
– Activities such as hiking among redwoods, fishing, golfing, or exploring
tidepools
The Gateway to the Pacific Northwest theme is intended to encourage artists
to thoughtfully depict the unique aspects of Brookings and the entire region,
helping each unique artwork stand out while maintaining continuity across
various pieces.
We look forward to seeing your innovative proposals and celebrating our
region through this significant public art project.
With Gratitude,
The Brookings Public Art Collaborative
BrookingsPublicArt@GMail.com
Ron Schneirson – Chairperson
Cell 541.698.6272
Location
Brookings, Oregon
Opportunity Region
National
Commitment
Non-Applicable
Contact Email
BrookingsPublicArt@GMail.com