Art Calls Sandy Spring Museum Open Call for Future Exhibitions
Opportunity Description
U.S. Multi-State Deadline Deadline: September 18, 2026 – Sandy Spring Museum is creating a growing collection of permanent functional artworks that will shape the visitor experience across our campus for years to come. Selected works will become part of a long-term cultural landscape initiative that combines public art, environmental stewardship, and regional storytelling. We are seeking artists who are excited to create highly visible functional artworks that invite interaction while celebrating the people and traditions of Montgomery County.
ELIGIBILITY
Because we celebrate local talent, artists residing in Maryland, Virginia, or the District of Columbia (DMV) are eligible to participate. Anyone living within the DMV can apply, including emerging and established artists, as individuals or as a group.
Functional art may include seating, gathering spaces, bike racks, interpretive elements, trail features, landscape structures, or other artworks that combine artistic expression with everyday use. We are particularly interested in works that visitors will encounter while walking on the new trails
INITIAL SELECTIONS & HONORARIUM
Current plans are to install at least one work each year for the next several years. This is Phase I of a two-phase application process. Artists selected for Phase II will receive a $1,000 honorarium to develop a site-specific proposal. See “What Steps Are Involved? Phase II” for details.
The selected functional art concept(s) should respond to a connection to place, community or history. Artists selected for Phase II will have access to the Museum’s archives, staff expertise, and historical resources to help inform their designs.
Phase I does not require a developed design, drawings, renderings, fabrication plans, or a project budget. We are interested in learning about your artistic practice, relevant experience, connection to the region, and preliminary thinking about functional art for the Museum campus.
FINAL SELECTIONS
Selection of artists for Phase II will be based on experience with similar projects and artistic qualifications that demonstrate an ability to successfully complete the project. We encourage applications from underrepresented artists.
The final artwork must be designed for permanent outdoor installation with minimal ongoing maintenance. It must be safe for public use and fully functional for its intended purpose.
Selection will be based on the following:
- Artistic excellence
- Experience completing public art projects
- Ability to create durable outdoor work
- Interest in local history and culture
- Approach to community engagement
- Feasibility
APPLY ONLINE – No Fee
If you have questions about this Call for Artists, please contact Programs & Exhibits Coordinator Yu Jie by email or phone (301) 774-0022.
About:
Sandy Spring Museum, located in Sandy Spring Maryland, serves as a catalyst for community building by providing opportunities for creative engagement in a range of cultural arts. The museum offers the environment and inspiration for artists and community members to create and host events, performances, activities, and exhibits, which engage, stimulate, and bring people together. The SSM grounds are open daily and many special events and programs are offered throughout the year, as are private rentals.
Sandy Spring Museum
17901 Bentley Road
Sandy Spring, MD 20860
Apply for this Opportunity
Follow Us…
