call for public art: canal convergence 2025

Canal Convergence seeks proposals for outdoor, temporary public artworks to be featured in and around the Arizona Canal at the Scottsdale Waterfront in Scottsdale, Arizona. Canal Convergence will be on view for 10 nights, from Nov. 7–16, 2025. Some projects may be selected to remain installed for an additional 1–2 months after the Canal Convergence event dates. This year’s central theme is “Showtime!”

This call specifically targets outdoor, light-based installations. Nighttime presence/activation is required; daytime presence/activation is encouraged.

Artwork Considerations for Canal Convergence 2025:

• Propose an artwork that speaks to the 2025 featured theme, Showtime!
• Present multiple (2-3) installations for the event that can be shipped to and from Canal Convergence in the same truck, container, etc.
• Propose art installations that can be located in smaller, more narrow sections of the ground, ground that is not level, and/or integrated into the landscaping without damaging or destroying any plants.
• Submit art installation proposals that do not require 24-hour security.

This call is Phase I of II. Phase I asks artists to focus primarily on the proposal concept, images, rendering, and estimated total budget. Once Phase I closes on April 23, 2025, up to 30 proposals will be selected for Phase II via Scottsdale Public Art staff review. These artists will be asked to provide more detailed information on their proposals, which will be presented to a final selection panel composed of Scottsdale Arts staff and advisory board members, the city of Scottsdale and Salt River Project staff, and community stakeholders. Required additional information for Phase II will include, but is not limited to, a detailed timeline, itemized budget, support crew, heavy equipment and power requirements, etc.

Event Information:

Canal Convergence | Showtime!

November 7–16, 2025

Fridays and Saturdays: 6–10 p.m.

Monday-Thursday and Sundays: 6–9 p.m.

Scottsdale Waterfront in Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S.A.

Free Admission