Gowanus-Inspired Proposals Wanted For Public Art Installations

Mary Bakija -


A public art initiative that’s part of the Bridging Gowanus project just launched a call for proposals for work that will show what makes the neighborhood so unique.

Presented by Arts Gowanus and the Old Stone House and Washington Park, and sponsored by Councilmember Brad Lander, artists are invited to submit ideas for an 11-month installation that reflect Gowanus’ history, culture, diversity, and, of course, the Canal itself.

“Known for its industrial past and polluted canal, Gowanus is now home to hundreds of artists and creative businesses,” the call for artists notice reads. “This project aims to create new platforms for public art and new opportunities for the artists, while at the same time showcasing what makes Gowanus ‘Gowanus.'”

You can submit ideas for new or existing work, solo or a collaboration, in any media — just note that the work will have to last outside for nearly a year and follow these Parks guidelines. The work should be designed for one of the following installation sites:

  • The concrete plazas on either side of the Carroll Street Bridge.
  • The canal-front park at Whole Foods on 3rd Ave at 3rd St.
  • Other publicly accessible sites in the Gowanus neighborhood, on either side of the canal, where artists have obtained the written permission from the owner, will be considered.

A panel of community members and public art professionals will choose between three and five installations, depending on the budgets of the proposals. Proposals are due on March 2 at 5pm, and work will need to be ready to be installed by June.

See the complete details about the project, including full submission requirements and how to submit a proposal, here. To learn more, a community meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 9 from 7-9pm at the Old Stone House, 336 3rd Street between 4th and 5th Avenues.

For any questions, contact Kim Maier at kmaier@theoldstonehouse.org or Abby Subak at abby@artsgowanus.org or 347-446-8254.