
The Indianapolis Public Library is seeking social practice artists for 2026 programming related to the semi-sesquicentennial—the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
Project Scope
Artists will lead the creation of a social practice art piece constructed in collaboration with Library patrons. Artwork will encourage civic reflection and relate thematically to the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Art may explore topics such as the passage of hope from one generation to the next, the shared American experience, and varied perspectives on what it means to live in America today.
Artists will plan, develop, and facilitate programs that invite the collaborative development of a cohesive art piece based on the concepts of social practice art. Artists will be paid up to $4,800 and are required to make multiple visits to various locations of The Indianapolis Public Library over the course of 2026. During Library visits, artists will lead both the collaborative creation of the art piece and civic reflection conversations.
The project will be led by up to 3 professional Indianapolis-based artists, each assigned to a different region of The Indianapolis Public Library system. Artists will be selected for their ability to facilitate social practice art experiences.
About Social Practice Art
Socially engaged practice, also known as social practice art, can include any artform which involves people and communities in debate, collaboration, or social interaction. The participatory element of socially engaged practice is key, with the artwork created often holding equal or less importance to the collaborative act of creating them. Social practice art stokes conversation through collaboration, emphasizing community building over artistic outcome. At the heart of this art project is conversation. This project will encourage patrons to participate in civic reflection with their neighbors through the act of making something together.
How to Apply
Submit your application online.
Deadline to Apply:
11:59 p.m. on Sunday, August 10, 2025