Art Exposed Old Town 2027-2029

The Committee determines by vote which location is most appropriate for the submitted piece, while also taking into account the artist's preference in location.

Location Information

• Location #1 – Veterans Memorial Park: at the City's Veterans Memorial Park alongside the Siuslaw River, close to lodging and foot traffic, overlooking the Siuslaw River Bridge. The art chosen for this location will be given preference to an American military veteran, or art that honors American veterans. Max height 10 ft, max width 5 ft, base is a 36-inch diameter steel plate approximately 2 feet tall.
• Location #2 – River Roasters: west end of Bay Street, near a coffee shop patio in native landscaping, a vista point for the Siuslaw River Bridge. Max height 4 ft, max width 3 ft at the base.
• Location #3 – Rain Garden: set in the middle of the Rain Garden between Bay Street and the Siuslaw River, framing the historic art deco Siuslaw River Bridge. Max height 12 ft, max width 5 ft at the base, max weight 500 lbs.
• Location #4 – Interpretive Center East: on the eastern side of the Siuslaw River Interpretive Center, near pine trees and the City's holiday tree, nearly 360-degree visibility. Max height 5 ft, max width 3 ft at the base.
• Location #5 – Gazebo Park Plaza: at the entrance to Gazebo Park near brickwork, trees and native shrubbery, seen from the shaded plaza area. Max height 7 ft, max width 3 ft at the base.
• Location #6 – Secret Garden: tucked into native landscaping inside Gazebo Park in a raised planter bed along a brick pathway leading to the gazebo. Max height 4 ft, max width 3 ft at the base.
• Location #7 – Maple Street Park: at the entrance of Old Town's Maple Street Park, a high-traffic area near restaurants, shops and the Florence Farmers Market. Max height 6 ft, max width 3 ft at the base.
• Location #8 – Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Lawn Entrance: in the grassy lawn of the Chamber of Commerce's Visitor Center on Maple Street, near a public parking lot. Max height 10 ft, max width 3 ft at the base.

Eligibility Criteria

• All artists must be over eighteen (18) years old to be eligible.
• There is no required theme for most locations; creativity and innovation of designs are encouraged.
• Artwork must submit photographs of the specific art that is being entered. Work-in-progress must be at least 75% completed and photographs of the work in progress must be submitted. Mock ups, models, drawings, or concepts are not accepted for this Call.
• Please be sure to provide photos showing multiple angles of your work. Artists may also provide a video showcasing the piece.
• Entries must be the original design and artwork of the entrant. Designs must not include any breach of intellectual, trademarks, brands, business names, corporate or organizational brandings, or imagery of violence, drugs, and alcohol.
• Entries must be suitable for viewing for all ages.
• Artwork submitted may not be used for advertisement or to promote a business, product or viewpoint.
• Artists may submit work on their own or as part of a team.
• Artwork can be of any medium but must be able to withstand coastal weather conditions including wind and seasonal rain, as well as resistance to theft, vandalism, excessive maintenance and repair costs.
• Artwork cannot exceed 500 pounds in total weight.
• Artwork must include a way to attach to the steel base provided by the City of Florence on top of the concrete art plinth.
• Each work will be evaluated to require that it does not present a hazard to public safety and must conform to ADA standards.

Evaluation Criteria

Art submitted to the Art Exposed program will be evaluated on five criteria categories:

1. Visual Impact: the unique organization of art elements, content, and execution create a striking and memorable work. This project has the power to "wow" the viewer.
2. Interpretation & Criteria: the design shows unique and creative interpretation of the concept and was continued until it was as complete as possible. Effort is far beyond that required, with great attention to details.
3. Composition & Design: shows and effectively utilizes knowledge of the elements and principles of design. The design effectively fills the entire space.
4. Craftsmanship: demonstrates a mastery of skill and a clear understanding and application of specific medium qualities. The design is beautiful and complete.
5. Adherence to Design Criteria & Eligibility Guidelines: all criteria of assignment have been met. Artist demonstrates the best example of following directions for assignment.

Important Dates

• October 01, 2026 — Open Date
• 11:59 p.m. PST, Dec. 4, 2026 — Application Deadline

Interpretation & criteria