The Great ARTdoors, a collaboration between the Urbana Park District, the Champaign Park District, UIUC College of Fine and Applied Arts, Allerton Park & Retreat Center, Illinois Arboretum, and 40 North, is kicking off a new cycle of awarding selected local artists stipends to create outdoor art installations in several Champaign and Urbana parks and community gardens. This program is once again guided by the belief that public art has the ability to visually and intellectually activate outdoor spaces by reinforcing social connectivity, providing a sense of belonging, and sparking dialogue. This project is also committed to compensating and validating local artists, prioritizing underserved communities, and ensuring accessibility for all.
The 12 selected artists will receive a $1,500 stipend and the artwork will be featured in one of designated locations. Artists are asked to submit a proposal of artwork by 11:59pm on May 18th. Selected artists will be notified via email by May 25th and artwork will need to be ready to install by June 22, 2026. The selected artworks will remain installed approximately through the end of November.
