Kennesaw’s 2027 Art Blooms call asks artists to think outdoors

Image: AI-generated illustrative photograph of metalworking materials; not a submitted Art Blooms work or an artist’s actual studio.

A sculpture outdoors has to hold a conversation with more than a gallery wall. Weather, changing light, the ground beneath it and people walking past all become part of the experience. Smith-Gilbert Gardens’ call for 2027 Art Blooms puts that setting at the center of the opportunity.

The official request for proposals gives the theme as Rooted in Nature and lists January 11, 2027, as the submission deadline. It invites existing and new outdoor work from artists and teams aged 18 or older, including university students. There is no application entrance fee, and selected participants receive a stipend for lending their work.

The document asks applicants to explain materials, scale, installation and maintenance needs, along with their artistic approach. It also assigns responsibilities for transport and installation costs, making the full proposal packet essential reading before committing to a project.

The announcement describes an April–May 2027 exhibition, while the request outlines a longer sculpture loan. Applicants should review the complete timetable and confirm any inconsistent dates with the organizer. For emerging artists, a strong proposal can connect the nature theme with a clear account of how the work will function in a public garden.

Sources and visit details

• Smith-Gilbert Gardens: 2027 Art Blooms artist announcement
• City of Kennesaw: full 2027 request for proposals download