calls for small but meaningful gestures

After a long and trying winter Boston will explode with public art this spring — from the upcoming Janet Echelman installation on the Greenway to small public art project and interventions. The following is a list of calls that we think are perfect for budding artists and those wanting to get involved with issues-based work. All have the potential to be meaningful gestures in the public realm. Follow us on Twitter for further Boston-area calls and opportunities.

  • Spring Public Art – The Fort Point Arts Community will commission an FPAC artist to create a temporary public art work that contributes to creative placemaking in Fort Point, Boston. Goals include fostering connections between the public and the arts community and increasing the visibility of Open Studios, May 15–17. Work in all media considered. (FPAC membership is open to all.)
    Budget: $1500
    View call here.
    Deadline: extended to March 28

  • Stand Against Racism – Neighborhood Health Plan will commission an FPAC artist to create a participatory public art project representative of the YWCA’s yearly Stand Against Racism event which starts April 20. (FPAC membership is open to all.)
    Budget: $1,500-$2,000.
    View the call here.
    Due: April 5

  • Mini Transportation Art Commissions – The Design Studio for Social Intervention in partnership with GoBoston 2030 will issue five $1000 art commissions for Boston-area artists. The commissions include $500 for a transportation-inspired work of art (any medium...paint, poetry, dance, song, sculpture, food, etc.) and $500 to spend two days at the GoBoston 2030 Visioning Lab. Their goal is to have art engage and inspire thousands of Bostonians to imagine Boston's transportation future.
    Budget: $1,000
    View the call here.
    Due: April 9

  • Sculpture Racing – People’s Sculpture Racing has announced a call for entries for its inaugural and 80s revival of sculpture races during the Cambridge Arts River Festival (June 6) and Figment Boston (July 25-26). Sculpture racing is a spectacle of sculptures pushed, pulled, or pedaled in short races on urban byways. Projects may include integrated performance, sound art, and costumes.
    No budget.
    View the call here.
    Due: May 30