2026 - The semiquincentennial in central iowa
Call for Artist Submissions
Summer 2026 Public Art Event Hosted by Group Creatives | Central Iowa
Group Creatives is seeking proposals from accomplished artists across disciplines for a public arts initiative in Central Iowa, scheduled for Summer 2026. This event will celebrate the United States' Semiquincentennial with a series of semi-permanent and site-responsive works.
Deadline for submissions: June 5, 2025
What is it?
A 3-month public art focused event in central Iowa. Consisting of multiple semi-permanent public art installations in less-conventional locations around the center of the state, the event captures the spirit of the midwest arts and celebrates unique aspects of Iowa’s land and people.
As a temporary public art exhibition inspired by the United States’ Semiquincentennial in 2026, this event will recognize Iowa’s landscape and cultural identity through art and public engagement.
By fostering connections with land, labor, and resourcefulness, it seeks to shift perceptions of art, explore understanding, and celebrate the wonder of singular human experiences.
What We’re Looking For
We welcome proposals for new or existing works that may include visual installations, performances, experimental formats, or interactive experiences. Projects should be designed to remain on view for approximately three months with minimal maintenance. We strongly encourage works that meaningfully engage with the cultural and physical landscape of the region.
Possible Installation Sites Include
Farms, fields, parks, roundabouts, storefronts, gardens, arboretums, brownfields, and other public or unconventional spaces. Site specifics are still being finalized, so if your work requires unique conditions—such as limited access, electrical needs, or being experienced after dark—please let us know; we may be able to accommodate.
Budget & Support
While there is no concept development funding available at this stage, we are actively fundraising for projects that could be implemented with budgets in the in the $20,000–$80,000 range.
Let’s Talk
If you have an idea, questions, or aren’t sure if your work fits—reach out! We’re happy to discuss and explore possibilities with you.
This event aims to:
Connect Iowans to new forms of artistic experience
Engage locals with a new sense of place and expression
Provide visitors with deeper engagement with places
Connect communities through a spatialized art event celebrating the people, land, and connections of the midwest
Themes for this event include [but are not limited to]:
Land as canvas, labor as legacy, resourcefulness as culture
Interpretation of the everyday through awe and imagination
Shared human dignity
Dialogue between rural and urban, past and future, Iowa and the world
How to PARTICIPATE
After reviewing the information on this page, please submit the form below by June 5th, 11:59 Central US Time