Harry,

Your thoughts are very much appreciated.  I also agree with you on the idea of a theme.  From what I know of artists, they are free spirits and would not want their art to be labeled or boxed in.

Thank you!!

Brian

-----Original Message-----
From: harry@harrymcdaniel.com <harry@harrymcdaniel.com>
Sent: Thursday, May 8, 2025 3:42 PM
To: Brian O'Connor <boconnor@nolanvilletx.gov>
Cc: public_art_network@americansforthearts.simplelists.com
Subject: Re: Call for Artists: Sculpture

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Brian,

I can offer a sculptor's voice (which is not necessarily representative of other sculptors). I have participated in about 60 outdoor sculpture exhibitions, including one in Texas. I looked at your prospectus for the current show and it seems consistent with similar shows.

Outdoor sculpture shows offer compensation to artists by different names--honoraria, rental, travel allowance, prizes, etc.--but, when I consider applying, I primarily weigh these three questions:
What is the guaranteed income?
How far do I have to drive?
How long is the show?

If a show looks good on those issues, then I consider the possibility of prizes, insurance, etc. Compensation is variable in different regions, but, I generally apply to shows that offer at least $1,500, if I can deliver and get home the same day, or $2,000, if I will have to stay overnight.

On the question of travel allowance: Are you not getting enough applications from local sculptors? If not, raising the compensation for everyone might help. Increasing compensation by travel distance will draw more non-local sculptors, but if you offer very much extra, you may be  under-valuing local artists.

Something else that you could do to increase your number of applicants (and quality of the show) is to NOT attach a theme to the show.
Personally, I see no need for a theme for an outdoor sculpture show.
Most viewers will not even realize that there is a theme anyway. Just let people enjoy the diversity of sculpture.

Harry

On 2025-05-08 09:13, Brian O'Connor (via public_art_network list) wrote:
> Dear Colleagues,
>
> The Nolanville Arts Commission is hosting their 3rd Annual Sculpture
> Competition.  Nolanville is a small community of only 7,000 residents,
> but values public art.  The Sculpture Competition is for pieces of art
> that can fit on a 5' x 5' concrete pad and is no taller than 10'.  The
> city's Public Works Department will work with artists to complete the
> installation, and the city will insure the artwork while in its care.
> Question:  What is an appropriate travel stipend to offer artists to
> bring their sculpture to our community and should be released upon
> delivery and removal.
>
> Your thoughts are most appreciated.
>
> Brian O'Connor
>
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