Description
Howard County Arts Council Announces Call for Artists for Major Public Art Sculpture at New Elkridge Community & 50+ Center
The Howard County Arts Council (HCAC), in partnership with Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, has released a national Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for artists to design, fabricate, and install a signature public art sculpture at the new Elkridge Community & 50+ Center. The commission is funded at $500,000, making it one of the most significant public art opportunities in the region.
The artwork will be a centerpiece of the County’s Arts for All initiative, a new public art investment program designed to enliven public spaces across Howard County with permanent, community-inspired artworks. The new 67,000-square-foot Elkridge Community & 50+ Center—currently under design—includes a gym and multipurpose spaces for residents of all ages.
A Sculpture Rooted in Community Identity
Artists are invited to propose work that reflects the character, heritage, and spirit of the Elkridge community. Extensive local engagement has shaped the project vision, with residents calling for themes including:
- Elkridge’s hard-working identity and community pride
- Industrial, river, and railroad history
- Diversity, inclusion, and storytelling
- A unifying symbol and welcoming gathering place
- Interactive or educational elements for families
- A bold, visible landmark that represents “the whole Elkridge”
The final sculpture should serve as a focal point for intergenerational connection and embody the stories, values, and aspirations of the community.
A National Call for Artists
The RFQ is open to professional artists and artist teams nationwide with experience in creating large-scale, outdoor sculpture. Applicants must demonstrate excellence in design, craftsmanship, and durable materials, as well as the ability to work within a collaborative public process.
Artists are strongly encouraged to incorporate community engagement as part of their approach.
Project Timeline
- RFQ Release: December 8, 2025
- Questions Due: December 20, 2025
- Submissions Due: January 20, 2026, by 5:00 PM ET
- Shortlist Announcement: March 2026
- Concept Development: May–July 2026
- Community Reveal: August 2026
- Final Artist Selection: September 2026
- Fabrication: January–December 2027
- Installation: Q1 2028
Shortlisted artists will receive a $2,500 stipend to develop conceptual proposals and participate in community presentations.
Submission Details
Artists must submit a single PDF containing a letter of interest, resume/CV, portfolio, and references. Optional materials such as preliminary concepts or community engagement plans may be included.
Submissions must be uploaded to the RFQ portal:
https://hocoarts.submittable.com/submit/343426/elkridge-community-and-50-center-public-art-sculpture-rfq
The complete RFQ, including site plans, technical specifications, and sample agreements, is available upon request.
About Arts for All
Arts for All is a countywide initiative designed to expand access to permanent public art at civic facilities and public spaces. Funded through Howard County’s Capital Budget, the program aims to strengthen community identity, promote cultural expression, and create lasting public benefit through high-quality art installations.