As part of this year’s Canada Day celebrations, focusing on safe alternatives for interactive events, the Town of Pelham’s Art Advisory Committee and Canada Day Planning Group seek ambitious artists to create temporary outdoor art installations.

The installations will be on display for Canada Day on July 1 and will be part of an interactive scavenger hunt as part of the overall Canada Day celebrations. Artists are asked to submit their proposals with the theme of ‘what it means to be Canadian’ in mind.

“We know there are many talented and creative artists in Pelham, emerging or longstanding,” said Jodi Shishkov, culture and community enhancement programmer. “Art inspires and so too does our heritage and sense of place, so pairing Canada Day with an outdoor art installation is a perfect fit, especially during a time when we have to be mindful of our interactions with one another.”

Proposals can include but are not limited to shadow structures, outdoor photo installations, murals, literary displays, temporary sculptures, outdoor textiles, fence art, storytelling installations, musical or theatre renditions that are available virtually.

The Pelham Art Advisory Committee will review and select successful applications. Applicants can enter more than one submission and must be received by the committee not later than May 19, 2021.  Selected applicants receive notification on May 31, 2021, and will be provided with a material and artist fee for their temporary installation. Artists must include a maximum of five images with each submission, reflecting the artist’s portfolio.

Applicants must be from the Niagara Region, and priority will be given to artists who are Pelham residents. Applicants must be 18 or older or have parent/guardian consent. Persons with disabilities, visible minorities and Indigenous Artists are encouraged to apply.

Funding is provided by the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage Celebrate Canada Program. For more information, visit www.pelham.ca/canada-day