RFP/Q's GLEAM, Art in a New Light
Opportunity Description
International Deadline: January 7, 2026 – Olbrich Botanical Gardens invites proposals for temporary, large-scale, light-based art for GLEAM, Art in a New Light, a public art exhibition situated within a 16-acre Midwest landscape or 10,000 sq ft tropical conservatory.
The 2026 GLEAM exhibit will focus on light-based art concepts that present a captivating environment, offer creative play experience, and bring to light creatures of all shapes and sizes, real and imaginative. GLEAM will be open for public viewing from August 29 – October 24, 2026.
In 2015, the GLEAM exhibition was created and curated to showcase the natural beauty of the Gardens at night, expand public art opportunities in Madison in a unique natural setting, and offer programming that would appeal to a broad demographic of community members and attract future supporters.
BUDGET
Olbrich Gardens will consider proposal budgets between $5,000-$30,000. The 2026 GLEAM exhibit will feature 9-11 light-based artworks.
ELIGIBILITY
Local, regional, and international artists, collectives, architects, and lighting designers are invited to apply. Previous experience with illuminated art, projections, and/or lighting design concepts, preferably with outdoor installations, is required.
APPLY ONLINE – No Fee
Visit us for complete details and to apply.
TIMELINE
- January 7, 2026 – Proposal submission deadline closes at 11:59 p.m. (CST)
- January 2026 – Notification of finalists via email
- February/March 2026 – Proposal development and agreement negotiation/completion
- April 17, 2026 – Final proposal deadline due by 11:59 p.m. (CST)
- August 5-25, 2026 – Exhibit install
- August 29, 2026 – Opening viewing
- September 2–Oct 24, 2026 – GLEAM exhibition duration
- October 26-30, 2026 – Deinstall of artwork
About:
Olbrich Botanical Gardens will be a locally treasured and globally renowned source of beauty and knowledge celebrating the importance of plants to foster a sustainable world.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Avenue
Madison, WI 53704
(608) 246-4550
