2027 Temporary Public Art -Trailhead Sculpture

The City of Santa Clarita seeks outdoor sculptures for its Temporary Public Art - Trailhead Sculpture program. Two sculptures by two different artists will be displayed on permanent concrete pads along the city's trail system from June 30, 2027, through March 31, 2030. The stated compensation package per selected artist is $8,500, comprising a $5,000 honorarium, $2,000 engineering stipend, and $1,500 insurance allowance. Emerging and experienced artists are encouraged to apply.

Open to individual artists or artist teams aged 18 or older. Applicants must have a valid United States mailing address for contractual payments and submit a completed W-9 upon selection. Local artists and artists with a meaningful connection to Santa Clarita are encouraged, but such a connection is not required. Submit only one proposed artwork; submitting more than one results in disqualification. Required materials: a current professional resume/CV documenting public art placements, exhibitions, or relevant experience; up to five high-quality images of the one proposed sculpture, including digital renderings, multi-angle drawings, or photographs of an existing piece; a separate PDF containing up to five examples of previously completed artworks, not included in the proposed-design image list; and a sculpture description and maintenance statement specifying materials, exact dimensions, weight, exterior performance history, and a suggested routine maintenance schedule. Complete the CaFE text-field questions with a professional artistic statement and an explanation of interest in the program. Foundation pads measure 96 x 96 inches, with a usable structural footprint of 72 x 72 inches, and are flush with the surrounding dirt or raised a few inches. A horizontal base may use the pad's maximum length if its width remains within the usable parameters. Sculptures should be 6–15 feet tall and must not exceed 3,000 pounds. No onsite electrical power is available; lighting or moving elements require an integrated, self-contained solar component. Work must be structurally sound, highly durable in exposed desert conditions including heat, UV exposure, and high winds, and inherently resistant to theft, vandalism, climbing, and excessive maintenance. Work must avoid sharp, low-hanging, or trapping hazards and comply with public safety and ADA clearance protocols, including no loose or low-lying components blocking pathways or creating tripping hazards. Content must suit an all-ages civic audience and may not include commercial advertisements, branding, trademarked symbols, intellectual property breaches, or depictions of drugs/illegal substances. The source describes the outdoor exhibition cycle as two-and-a-half years and gives dates of June 30, 2027–March 31, 2030. The $8,500 package per selected artist includes a $5,000 honorarium, a $2,000 engineering stipend, and a $1,500 insurance allowance. Application, participation, and additional fees are all stated as none.