Sculpt Siouxland is a yearlong exhibit displaying sculptures from local and national artists. This exhibit is free to the public and displayed on downtown streets of Sioux City, Iowa. Sculptures are on loan from the artist for one year. At least one piece of art will be purchased by Sculpt Siouxland in order to form a permanent display for downtown Sioux City. The exhibit will close with a live auction of the other artists’ work at the annual Sculpt Siouxland Celebration.

History

Sculpt Siouxland is similar to a program originated in Grand Junction, CO and adapted in many other cities. Grand Junction’s Art on the Corner was founded by a local sculptor in 1984. This project embraces the arts, develops community pride, and draws people to the downtown shopping park. Annually, over 300,000 visitors view the dynamic public exhibit in Grand Junction.

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) undertook the management of the exhibit in 1989 and established a committee comprised of representatives from the DDA, Downtown Association, Colorado Center for the Arts, area businesses and interested individuals. The committee is responsible for developing, promoting and maintaining the quality of the exhibit while increasing the number of sculptures.

Sculpt Siouxland
It was the idea of the Sioux City Growth Organization (SCGO) to draw foot traffic to the destinations in downtown Sioux City, educate and promote interactive art to our youth, and allow artists the opportunity to share their work.

In 2008, SCGO members decided to open the project to the community. Sculpt Siouxland is now its own entity and open for all members of the community to participate in. Sculpt Siouxland's new purpose is to engage and educate the public to the potential of art in public spaces through exhibitions and supporting materials and events.

Public Involvement
The public is encouraged to experience each sculpture through individual viewing, hands-on interaction and guided tours. Sculpt Siouxland members will conduct tours on special dates throughout the year and as requests are made.

The public will also have the opportunity to vote on the winners of the People’s Choice and Children's Choice Awards.

Both award recipients will be automatically chosen for the next year's exhibit with an approved original piece.

Insurance
Each artist is required to maintain insurance coverage for his/her own work. The City of Sioux City will cover liability insurance on the sculptures, but individuals must insure their own piece(s) against vandalism and damage.  If a sculpture breaks during the exhibition period due to a flaw in design or suitability for outdoor display, the artist is required to repair the work at no cost to Sculpt Siouxland.