Application open for public sculpture program

Applications are open now for Works in Public, the Art Student League of New York’s exclusive public art program in partnership with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. This professional development program offers artists the opportunity to create sculptures for year-long public exhibitions at Riverside Park.

Participating artists will gain experience working with the physical materials and processes that are used to create original works of public art, and are awarded a stipend and a scholarship for a full-time class at the League for the duration of the program.

Artists working in all media are invited to apply by July 7.

‍Works in Public is a two-year program. The first year is dedicated to seminars on the history and contemporary understanding of public sculpture, the study of sculptural concepts, proposal and presentation methods, site analysis, fabrication processes, engineering, and studio visits. This year culminates in the creation of a proposal for a full-scale public artwork. The second year is dedicated to the fabrication process of selected proposals, culminating in the installation of artworks in Riverside Park South and Riverside Park/145th Street for a one-year public exhibition. The course will offer weekly seminars, guest lecturers, and critics. It will include visits to public art sites and artists’ studios, discussions, recommended readings, assignments, and consultations.

How to apply
Works in Public uses an open application process, open now through July 7, 2024. Apply here.

Selected artists must commit to taking classes at the League during their participation in the program. A successful application is based on the strength of the proposed concept and portfolio. Artists working in all media are invited to apply. Please see our website for WiP Prospect and Frequently Asked Questions.

Current jurors
The jurors for the 2024 Works in Public selection will be artist Tanda Francis and Nora R. Lawrence, Artistic Director and Chief Curator of Storm King Art Center.

Need more information
For more information, contact Tom Tacik at tom@artstudentsleague.org.

Works in Progress is supported, in part, by Ludmila Schwartzenberg Bidwell, Susan Dryfoos, The Harry Feinberg Family Foundation, John Padget, Kathleen H. Seidel, The Dr Lawrence Spielberger & Dr Greta Spanierman Family Foundation, and the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. We gratefully acknowledge our community partners the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, Riverside Park Conservancy, and Manhattan Community Board 9.