Artist Query

Judy Bird, Witness

The Summer Solstice, June 21, will be the opening day for the 9th season of Art Outside, when new works by up to 20 artists will be unveiled in Webster’s Woods Art Park, renewing the magic of these five lovely woodland acres, which continue to enchant and inspire all who come here.

Beginning with works by 40 Northwest artists in 2000, the population of Webster’s Woods has seen a net increase every season through gift, purchase and extended loan to reach a high point of 128 in 2007. Some works have been returned, deteriorated or been destroyed by storms, but the population of the Woods should exceed that number with this year’s new crop.

PAFAC is now seeking proposals from artists for the placement of existing sculptures or for the creation of site works The hilly property has beautiful outlooks onto the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Olympic National Park. At the same time it offers a feeling of seclusion with many sheltered areas that frame the artworks in a verdant corona. Webster’s Woods includes a bog and has, at its very heart, a charming central meadow that features an 11-course labyrinth delineated by more than 4,000 river rocks.

PAFAC will pay $400 to each exhibiting artist to help defray costs. A minimum one-year loan is requested. Works may be for sale and permanent acquisition through purchase or gift is possible. We welcome sculpture in traditional media, site interventions, earth-works, sound works, interactive works and performance. Relevance of the work to the natural setting and harmony with the other works in the park are the guiding curatorial principles. Sites will be determined in dialogue with PAFAC director and Art Outside curator, Jake Seniuk.

Submit 10 - 20 images (digital format preferred, slides and prints also accepted) of existing work for placement or as portfolio samples for proposal consideration. Initial proposals may be in verbal form, if supplemented with adequate related visual materials. Please enclose SASE for any materials you would like returned via snail mail. A site visit is strongly encouraged.

Please submit materials or state your intention to submit as early as possible. Proposals received after the April 16 Screening Deadline cannot be guaranteed full consideration. Works to be installed in late May and early June. Housing will be arranged for out-of-town artists during their installation stays. Queries are welcome.