City of Oxford

The Downtown Oxford Sculpture Trail highlights artwork commissioned by artists both locally and from the state of North Carolina. Please read below for instructions on how to apply, required artwork characteristics, location, and the project timeline. Interested in having your artwork showcased? Then print and fill out the application!

                                                                             City of Oxford Sculpture Trail Application

How to Apply
Artists interested in this project must prepare and submit materials detailed below on the form provided. Additional information may be required at the discretion of the City.The application form for each sculpture entry should include:
                    - Detailed list of materials used in the sculpture
                    - Artist’s statement about the artwork including date of creation and HOW the piece was created
                    - A detailed explanation of how the piece will be secured or anchored when installed
                    - A list of professional references
                    - A brief artist biography outlining credentials and relevant experience with public art commissions
                    - Multiple photographs of each artwork in JPEG or PDF format (up to 6 per sculpture), including one with a person or other object for scale
                    - The artists requested stipend for selected sculptures (up to $1,000.00 per piece)
Send all submissions to stephen.blasko@oxfordnc.org

Selection Committee
Artwork will be selected by the City of Oxford and the Downtown Oxford Economic Development Corporation (DOEDC), along with the assistance of the Director of Public Works.The Panel will use the following selection criteria:

Required Artwork Characteristics

• Suitability for family viewing
• Display of high-quality technical skill, imagination, innovation
• Suitability for outdoor display in adverse weather conditions
• Soundness of construction, durability and safety of artwork

Desirable Artwork Characteristics

• Artwork that is easily visible to create a sense of discovery, surprise, and intimacy
• Artwork that use kinetic devices, optical effects, dynamic shapes, or bright colors to celebrate trail users; sense of movement and motion
• Artwork that is participatory, interactive
• Artwork that is whimsical, uplifting, and creative

Location of Artwork
Downtown Oxford is a North Carolina Main Street community and a destination where people, businesses, and the arts thrive. Incorporated in 1816, long-time and new residents alike are rediscovering many of the historical and architecturally significant buildings and neighborhoods that add charm and character to Downtown. Festivals and special events such as the NC Hot Sauce Festival, Alive After Five, Music on Main, Lighting of the Greens and Christmas Parade, and many more draw visitors and residents by the thousands to Downtown. Downtown Oxford is accessible with I-85, Hwy 15, Hwy 158, and Hwy 96 and is located just up the road from Durham, Raleigh, and the Research Triangle. Sites for the sculpture trail include many popular and well-traveled locations in Downtown Oxford and beyond. The City reserves the right to designate the exhibition location of the selected work.

Project Timeline

• Submissions due: Friday, June 9, 2023 
• Selection Notifications to Artists: July 15, 2023
• Delivery and Installation of Artwork Completed: Before August 26, 2023. Installation dates will be negotiated between the City and the artist
• People’s Choice Award: Spring 2024
• Removal: end of May-June 2024