Call For Architects and Designers

Earn a place in the spotlight

The application period is OPEN; apply today!

This form is intended to be filled out by creative firms such as architects, landscape architects, and design firms of various backgrounds who would like to exhibit their work as part of the Festival. Installations made by design firms in Portland highlight the expansive creative ecosystem that makes up our city and allow firms to participate in a community-oriented exhibition that highlights local talent. We encourage design firms to approach this installation with a spirit of friendly competition and present their most unique and engaging work!

If you are interested in creating site-specific work, there are several available locations, including the World Trade Center, Pioneer Courthouse Square, and other centrally located interior window areas in downtown and the inner east side. The programming of installations at these anchor sites will depend on availability, logistics, and the flow of the Festival.

Limited 20′ x 20′ spaces with (1) 20 amp power supply are available at the anchor sites.  The interior window spaces will vary in size and available power. If you have a location you are interested in, please indicate that on your application form.

If you already have a confirmed location for your installation, please use the “Art with Location for Architects, Design and Creative Firms” form. This link will guide you through submitting your installation proposal for your specific venue.

The 2027 theme is In Other Words.

If your piece is selected, there is a $300 fee to participate in the Festival. The fee covers a portion of the logistics and coordination of this program and serves as a commitment to the project.

Interested in learning more? Please email [email protected] with any questions. 

Architects/designers who need a venue

Do you have art that needs a venue? This application is for you! Click the green button!

Application deadline extended:
5 PM August 28, 2026

art application

Architects/designers with Location

Do you have a confirmed location that wants to show your art? Great, click the pink button!

Application deadline:
5 PM August 28, 2026

Art with location

Frequently Asked Questions

Artwork is selected on a competitive basis, with light as a required central component. Proposals are evaluated on the quality of design, concept, and form, as well as feasibility and safety. We also consider the artist’s previous work, the vision for the installation, and how the piece fits with other selected works.

When placing installations, we take into account venue availability, logistical needs, and the quality and craftsmanship of the proposed work.

We receive hundreds of submissions and carefully review each one to assess the strength of the proposal and determine the best fit for each venue. We consider how artworks will flow together and ask detailed questions about both the proposed installation and the artist. Artists will be notified on a rolling basis through October 30.  

For art to be placed, your fee will be due once we accept your proposal and confirm a location for your installation. If you already have a location, the fee will be due once we accept your proposal – by October 30th at the latest. We will send you an invoice and link for the participation fee.  

Yes, absolutely, we encourage collaboration. We do require only one contact per application.   

Yes! You are allowed to submit as many ideas as you like. One application form per proposal.  

Yes. Please fill out the Art with Location for Architects, Design & Creative Firms form.  

Please contact Chris Herring at [email protected] or Misty Post at [email protected] before August 21st so the art team has time to respond.