Help shape Springfield’s artistic legacy and celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 — right where it all began.

The Springfield 66 Centennial Sculpture Series invites artists to submit proposals for the design and decoration of oversized Route 66 shield sculptures that will be displayed throughout Springfield and the greater Ozarks region beginning in Spring 2026.

Project Overview

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Route 66—and Springfield’s proud distinction as the birthplace of the Mother Road—a citywide public art initiative is launching: the Springfield 66–Centennial Sculpture Series. This series will feature large-scale fiberglass sculptures in the shape of the iconic Route 66 shield, each uniquely transformed by a different artist to reflect stories of community, heritage, and imagination.

Installed in culturally significant and highly visible outdoor locations throughout Springfield, Missouri, these sculptures will form a self-guided art trail—encouraging exploration, boosting tourism, and fostering local pride. Sculptures will remain in place for a minimum of one year, with opportunities for longer-term exhibition.

Artists from across the country are encouraged to apply. While there is no entry fee, all selected artists must be able to pick up and return their assigned sculpture to a designated location in Springfield, Missouri (TBD).

Each sculpture is made of durable fiberglass and weighs approximately 80–100 pounds. Artists may not alter the structure of the sculpture or add three-dimensional elements; all transformations must be done through painting and surface design only.

Artists may submit up to two designs for consideration. All themes are welcome, but submissions containing offensive or inappropriate content will not be accepted. Designs will be reviewed and selected by project sponsors, and chosen artists will receive detailed technical specifications and painting guidelines upon selection.

The designated paint medium for all sculptures will be exterior acrylic. Once artworks are complete, each sculpture will be finished with a professional-grade automotive clear coat to ensure long-term durability and weather resistance.

 Artist Opportunity

We are seeking diverse, creative, and community-minded artists to bring these Route 66 shields to life. Selected artists will receive:

• A $2,000 stipend to cover materials and labor ($1000 at sculpture pick-up and $1000 at completion)

• A blank Route 66 shield sculpture (80” wide by 68” tall) to decorate — both sides (mirror images) must be completed

• Promotion through the Springfield 66 marketing campaign

• Public visibility through the display of your sculpture in the city

 Artist Responsibilities

• Submit a proposal with concept sketches and an artist statement describing your design

• Complete the final artwork on the provided sculpture within the designated timeline

• Participate in promotional efforts, including possible interviews or public events

Key Dates

• Submission Period: June 1 – July 27, 2025

• Artists Notified: September 1, 2025

• Sculpture Painting Period: October – December 2025
   • Artists will pick up and return the sculpture during this period

• Public Launch: Spring 2026

 How to Apply

Submit your proposal via the form below or by email at [email protected] and include:

• Your contact information

• A short artist bio

• A concept sketch and written description (a 2-D rendering of the shield sculpture is provided)

• Examples of relevant public or large-scale artwork (if available)

Join Us

This is more than a public art installation — it’s a celebration of culture, creativity, and community pride, rooted in the spirit of the Mother Road.