Appel à projet : Sculpture artistique

About the Open Call

The city of Melun seeks to commission a large-format sculpture as part of its 'Hors les murs' cultural policy, enhancing the Seine riverbanks. The sculpture should focus on Melun's heritage, local fauna, and flora, specifically depicting a heron. Objectives include developing outdoor cultural policy, valuing local heritage, raising awareness of contemporary art, showcasing an artist's work, vitalizing city districts, beautifying the Seine banks, and supporting artistic creation. The artwork must be integrated with local fauna/flora, be harmonious with existing sculptures, be installed directly on the ground at a defined site (at least 1.50m from the riverbank), be entirely protected against rain (via varnish), and have an estimated lifespan of five years. It must be made from recycled materials, in the spirit of 'Land Art,' and be resistant to public interaction. The sculpture should measure between 3 and 3.50 meters maximum and not require specific network connections (water, electricity). Artists will also be expected to participate in 5 workshops with schools.

What is Offered

A commission of 8,000€ (all taxes and charges included) for the conception, material acquisition (recycled materials like wood, scrap metal), realization, diffusion rights, and cession of rights for a large-format sculpture. An advance payment of up to 30% may be made upon contract signing, with the balance paid after completion. The amount covers artist's time, material costs, and artist's participation in 5 workshops in schools.

Requirements

Open to any major individual artist or artist collective. Candidates must have a legal status allowing them to invoice for the service and provide civil and/or professional liability insurance. A contract will be signed before the project begins.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a digital dossier (PDF or web link) via email to mtremblai@ville-melun.fr by September 1, 2025, at 12 PM. The dossier must include: an artist's book, a CV detailing artistic and mediation experience, a list of available works for dissemination, a letter of intent outlining the artistic direction of the proposed project (including financial elements based on the theme and project specificities), and a technical note specifying the duration of the intervention and an artwork sketch.