Art Detour: Brewster–Navarre Sculpture Project

Description

Art Detour: Brewster-Navarre Sculpture Project is a partnership of Visit Canton, ArtsinStark, and Fairless Local Schools. Art Detour aims to spark exploration, celebrate rural culture, and bring public art into new parts of Stark County.

This first sculpture—created with the support and imagination of Fairless students—will set the tone for future installations that invite people to discover beauty in unexpected places.

Project Overview and Theme

Visit Canton and ArtsinStark are launching Art Detour, a new public art initiative designed to bring high-impact artwork to rural and visitor-destination areas of Stark County. From sculptures along scenic roads to murals on barns and silos, Art Detour celebrates creativity in the places people might least expect it—inviting residents and visitors to explore all corners of the county.

The first Art Detour project will take place within the Fairless Local School District and uniquely involves Fairless High School students in both the development and installation of the sculpture. This piece will serve as a visual landmark symbolizing the unity of the Fairless communities—Brewster, Navarre, Beach City, and Wilmot.

Location

The sculpture will be installed at the prominent intersection of Navarre Rd. SW & Mount Eaton St. SW, between Fairless High School and Fairless Middle School.

This site represents the shared center of the Fairless community and serves as an entry point for travelers heading toward Amish Country.

Artist Eligibility

This opportunity is open to professional artists living in Ohio who have:

Experience in large-scale outdoor sculpture
Experience with or interest in community-engaged public art
The ability to collaborate with students (up to 20 hours)
A commitment to durable materials and safe installation
Ability to pass a background check

Scope of Work

The selected artist will:

Design and fabricate a durable, weather-resistant outdoor sculpture
Provide all labor, materials, equipment, and installation
Collaborate with Fairless Local School students during key phases
Preferably include integrated lighting (electric access provided)
Create a sculpture that reflects the rural setting and symbolizes the coming together of the Fairless communities
Ensure structural integrity, public safety, and long-term durability
A comprehensive history of the four Fairless communities—prepared by students—is included below to support conceptual development.

Budget

Up to $15,000, all-inclusive of:

Design • Materials • Fabrication • Labor • Installation • Student Engagement • Travel • Equipment • Insurance • Incidentals

Timeline

Milestone Date
Call Announced November 25, 2025
Proposal Deadline January 5, 2025
Artist Selection January 13, 2026
Fabrication Jan–Apr 2026
Installation Complete May 1, 2026
Submission Requirements

Submit a single PDF (max 20 MB) including:

Letter of Interest describing your approach and student collaboration
2–5 samples of previous work (images or links), preferably outdoor sculpture
Preliminary concept sketches or early ideas
Project budget (simple line-item format)
Artist résumé/CV
Contact information (name, phone, email, city/state)

How to Apply

Email submissions to:

Maureen Ater
mater@artsinstark.com

Subject line: “Art Detour Sculpture – [Your Name]”

DEADLINE: Monday, January 5, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET to mater@artsinstark.com.