Valparaiso Art Walk at Cumberland Crossing 2026–2027

Description

Valparaiso Art Walk at Cumberland Crossing 2026–2027

Organization: City of Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission, Art Advisory Committee

Location: Valparaiso, Indiana

Exhibition Dates: June 2026 – May 2027

Submission Deadline: December 15, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. CST

Notification of Acceptance: December 31, 2025

Installation Dates: June 5-15, 2026

Exhibit Summary:
The Valparaiso Art Walk at Cumberland Crossing is an annual outdoor sculpture exhibition featuring at least 17 works displayed along a popular walking and biking path. Entering its 15th year, the Art Walk celebrates creativity, craftsmanship and community by showcasing public art in a natural setting. Located just an hour from Chicago and minutes from Lake Michigan, Valparaiso, Indiana is a vibrant community known for its historic downtown, beautiful parks and strong sense of connection among neighbors.

Eligibility:

Open to professional artists aged 18 and older.

Original works only; the work must be solely created by the artist and the artist must own the rights to the submitted artwork.

Up to four (4) sculptures may be submitted for consideration.

Works may be completed pieces or maquettes/models of work to be completed.

Artwork Specifications:

Minimum height: 48 inches (excluding base).

Must be structurally sound, safe and durable for outdoor display for up to one year.

Must withstand Midwest weather conditions, including wind, temperature changes and precipitation.

Artwork must remain installed for the full duration of the exhibition (June 2026–May 2027).

Honorarium, Insurance & Awards:

Honorarium: $1,500 per sculpture (provided upon installation)

Community Favorite Award: One participating artist will receive a $2,500 prize, determined by community vote and announced during the exhibition period.

Insurance: Upon installation, the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission will carry a general liability policy for the sale value of sculptures in the exhibit.

Sales: With artist pre-approval, sculptures may be listed for sale and featured on the City of Valparaiso’s website and Otocast app. All sales take place directly between the artist and the purchaser.

Installation Requirements:

Artists are responsible for delivery, installation and removal of their sculpture(s).
Sculptures must be secured to existing concrete pads located on site. 

Artists must bring necessary hardware, tools and materials for installation.

The City cannot provide welding, power or generator services.

Lift assistance or additional manpower support must be requested in advance.

An Artist Services Agreement and IRS W9 must be completed before installation.

Timeline Summary:
DateDescriptionDecember 15, 2025Submission DeadlineDecember 31, 2025Notifications SentJune 5–15, 2026Installation WindowJune 2026 – May 2027Exhibition DurationLate May 2027Removal Window Opens

How to Apply:
Submit up to four (4) entries through this ArtCall portal. Each entry should include:

Title, dimensions and materials of the sculpture

Up to three (3) high-quality images per work

Artist statement (150–300 words)

Optional: model/sketch of proposed work

Entry Fee: None

Contact: Maggie Clifton at mclifton@valpo.us or 219-462-1161.