Art Trail at CourtX: Open Call for Outdoor Sculpture and Installations

About the Open Call

We are inviting artists, creatives and collectives to submit expressions of interest for a major new art initiative at CourtX in Southsea. We are commissioning multiple site-specific sculptures and installations for the Art Trail at CourtX, a newly landscaped area designed to showcase outdoor artwork and offer visitors an engaging, evolving art experience. Natasja Jozsa, founder of Fine Line Art, is leading the curation and production of the Art Trail at CourtX, and will work closely with the selected artists throughout the development of the commissioned works. Site Information: The Art Trail at CourtX is set within a newly landscaped area that borders the site’s international-standard grass tennis courts. A gently meandering pathway leads visitors below ground level, creating an unexpected and enveloping route around the trail. There are 10 designated art locations with grass lawns, and additional opportunities for site-specific commissions integrated into the wider planting and landscaping. The site encourages exploration, offering a mix of open views and more hidden spaces. The landscaping phase of the project is due to complete in the coming months. Shortlisted artists will be invited to a site visit led by Fine Line Art to gain a deeper understanding of the setting and opportunities available. Curatorial Theme - Nature Anew: Nature Anew invites a fresh, renewed way of looking at and experiencing the natural world through the lens of art, science, and technology. Nature refers to the natural world in all its forms. This includes environmental systems, natural phenomena, plants, astronomy, and weather. Anew signals reinterpretation, looking differently, thinking inventively, and responding creatively. We are commissioning works that rethink how we perceive and connect with the natural world, explore how technology or science can deepen our relationship with nature, and use art as a bridge to make those connections visible, emotional, and meaningful. The work should spark wonder, inspire awe, and invite deeper reflection. Artworks may be analogue or tech-based, and must inspire curiosity, interaction, and imaginative engagement. What We're Looking For: We are commissioning a range of works that may include sound, light, sculpture, kinetic elements, and more. Some may involve digital components, others may be material-based or tactile in nature. All works must be appropriate for long-term outdoor installation, with weather-resilient and durable materials, and safe for public engagement. Key Features: Nature + Technology, Multi-Sensory, Interactive, Transformative (change by day/night), Tactile + Bold, Durability + Safety. Support and Eligibility: This opportunity is open to artists, creatives and collectives of all experience levels, from emerging to established practitioners. We welcome applications from individuals and collectives across all backgrounds and disciplines. Selected artists can be supported as required by a technical team. This is a collaborative opportunity.

What is Offered

Commissioning opportunities for site-specific sculptures and installations with a budget to accommodate production. Selected artists will also receive support from a technical team for feasibility, fabrication, installation, health & safety, and maintenance.

Requirements

Artists, creatives and collectives of all experience levels are invited to submit. Artworks must be appropriate for long-term outdoor installation, with weather-resilient and durable materials, and safe for public engagement. Key features include merging nature with technology, multi-sensory engagement, interactivity, transformative elements (day/night), and tactile/bold aesthetics.

How to Apply

Please submit your Expression of Interest including: 1. Artist Statement (max 300 words) – Tell us about your practice and creative interests. 2. Initial Response to the Theme (max 500 words) – Share your early ideas and how your work might respond to the site and brief. 3. Portfolio – Up to 5 images or links to past work (can include sketches, experiments, or documentation). 4. CV or Bio – If applicable, Include relevant experience, exhibitions, or commissions. 5. Optional - A short video or audio statement if preferred. To submit your Expression of Interest: Please email your submission to: info@finelineart.com. Use the subject line: Art Trail at CourtX – Expression of Interest.