STEPS Public Art and the City of Brantford invite professional Canadian artists and artist teams to submit qualifications for the first stage of a two-stage public art competition. This opportunity is for the creation of a new public artwork (or series of artworks) to be installed in Alexandra Park, located in downtown Brantford.
The commissioned sculpture(s) will honour and celebrate the 150th anniversary of the invention of the telephone. Alexander Graham Bell’s groundbreaking invention is deeply tied to Brantford, Ontario—earning the city its nickname, The Telephone City. The selected artist or artist team will be responsible for engaging with key community stakeholders to explore themes related to Bell’s life and legacy.
The selection process will follow an open, two-stage format. Up to three (3) artists or artist teams will be shortlisted and awarded $1,000 CAD (inclusive of HST) each to develop detailed design proposals. One artist or artist team will be selected for the final commission.
The total budget for this project is $135,000 CAD (inclusive of HST), which must cover all costs related to the project, including (but not limited to): artist fees, materials, fabrication, equipment rentals, installation, site preparation, foundation, engineering and professional services, insurance, permits, travel, and other associated expenses.
This project will also include a mentorship component. A local emerging artist will be selected by the City of Brantford—with input from the selected artist or artist team—to serve as an assistant during the fabrication and installation phases of the project.
Deadline:Â Extended to February 1, 2026 September 28, 2025 at 11:59 PM ET
Award: $135,000 CAD (HST inclusive)
