Birthplace Plaza Impact Piece

About the Open Call

Sculpture Walk Springfield, in partnership with the Rotary Clubs of Springfield, seeks visionary proposals for a major public art installation at Birthplace Plaza, the historic site where Route 66 was named. This opportunity invites artists, designers, and creative technologists to propose an interactive, light-based, or tech-forward experience that reimagines the future of Route 66. This RFP is distinct from the permanent sculpture commission. Artists may apply to both opportunities but must submit separate proposals. About the Site: Birthplace Plaza is located at the southwest corner of Jefferson Avenue and St. Louis Street in downtown Springfield, Missouri — the original site of the Colonial Hotel, where the telegram naming Route 66 was sent. This highly visible corner is being transformed into a signature destination that celebrates Route 66’s past while embracing interactive, future-facing storytelling. Project Goals: Establish a standout destination for Route 66 travelers, locals, and selfie-seekers. Fuse history and innovation through a powerful public art experience. Prioritize interactivity, motion, and/or participation. Use light, digital media, projection, sound, or other immersive elements. Complement, but remain distinct from, the permanent sculpture. Timeline: Call Opens: June 15, 2025; Submission Deadline: August 18, 2025; Selection Notification: August 30, 2025; Contract Finalized: By September 15, 2025; Fabrication Period: Upon signing—April 1, 2026; Installation Deadline: April 30, 2026.

What is Offered

$100,000 (all-inclusive) covering Artist/design fees, Materials, fabrication, and digital components, Technology integration, Transportation, delivery, and installation, and Insurance and permitting as applicable.

Requirements

Open to individual artists, creative teams, studios, and interdisciplinary collaborators. Experience with interactive or technology-based public work is strongly preferred. National and international proposals welcome; selected artist must coordinate local installation. Submission materials (PDF preferred) include: Concept Proposal (max 3 pages): Description, experience goals, and media/tech strategy; Visuals: Renderings, sketches, or mockups; Budget & Timeline: Breakdown of estimated costs and production schedule; Resume/CV: For lead applicant(s); Portfolio: Up to 5 relevant past works.

How to Apply

All materials should be submitted via email to: submissions@sculpturewalkspringfield.org. Subject line: Birthplace Sculpture Proposal – [Your Name/Team]. For questions or additional site details, please reach out to: Bridget Bechtel at submissions@sculpturewalkspringfield.org.