Art for the Moment: Call for Temporary Public Art Proposals

About this call

Art for the Moment is an initiative of the City of Lethbridge Public Art Program, administered by the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge. It invites artists and artist teams to propose temporary public art projects that will be installed or performed across Lethbridge between January and September 2027. Up to six commissions will be supported, each up to CA$8,000 (incl. GST) covering all project costs; at least 30% of the requested budget should go to artist fees. The program separately funds professional photo documentation, accessibility and engagement support, signage, minor site logistics and a public wrap-up celebration. Proposals may be a series of up to three connected installations, performances, events or activations forming one project, and may align with festivals, markets or neighbourhood celebrations, though independent ideas are welcome.

Who can apply

• Limited by country or region
• Medium: Installation / Performance / Sculpture / New Media / Mixed Media
• Entry fee: See official site
• Open to artists and teams working in any medium. Priority goes to artists connected to southern Alberta; proposals from artists across Alberta or neighbouring regions will be considered. Artists who self-identify as emerging, BIPOC or from under-represented groups are encouraged to apply. All activations must be public-facing and take place within Lethbridge city limits; projects should be completed between January and September 2027. A proposal may be a series of up to three connected installations, performances, events or activations forming one project, within the CA$8,000 maximum. Applicants may apply with a confirmed community partner, find a partner themselves, or ask for an introduction to an organization that responded to the Community Partner Expression of Interest. Budgets must include a clearly identified artist fee, and at least 30% of the requested budget should go to artist fees; curatorial fees may not exceed 25% of the total project budget, and proposals involving curation must include a curatorial concept, the participating artists or selection method and the curator's roles. Artists must ensure feasibility and obtain necessary permits, and selected artists must obtain insurance appropriate to the project; where commercial general liability insurance is required, proof is due before installation or public presentation. Include a documentation plan; artists need not budget for the photographer. Documentation must allow the Allied Arts Council and City of Lethbridge to share results and promote future programs. Payment: 50% on signing, 30% on completion of the public activation(s), 20% after a final report and, where applicable, removal and cleanup. Submit one PDF (max 10 MB) by email to publicart@artslethbridge.org with the subject line "Art for the Moment - Artist Proposal", including project description, proposed site or event, budget, timeline, technical and site needs, documentation plan, demobilisation and cleanup plan, community connection, CV(s) and up to five images or links of past work relevant to public art, and applicant information. Information session on October 13, 2026. The call does not mention an application fee.