2025-76 - Regional Sports Precinct Artwork - EOI
The City of Whittlesea is seeking Expressions of Interest for a major sculptural public artwork for the newly developed Regional Sporting Precinct in Mernda - a transformative project that addresses growing demand for inclusive, high quality sport and recreation infrastructure in Melbourne’s northern growth corridor.
This public artwork commission is central to the vision for the precinct located in the public plaza - the heart of the site that connects the indoor stadium and facilities to the outdoor courts, community spaces, and arrival areas. It will serve as a high-visibility landmark and gathering point for athletes, visitors, families, and the broader community.
Themes
This public artwork commission invites artists to respond to one of the precinct’s guiding principles - A Level Playing Field - supporting participation, equity and creating spaces where women feel welcome and valued.
The artwork is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the achievements and contributions of women and girls, across all areas of life, and recognise the ongoing efforts to forge their own paths, overcome barriers, and make meaningful contributions to community, culture, and society.
Who can apply
This EOI is open to artists that meet the following criteria:
• Female artists based anywhere in Australia.
• Emerging, mid-career, and established artists.
• Artists working individually or as part of a collaboration or collective, where the lead artist is female.
• Artists with demonstrated capacity to deliver high-quality, permanent sculptural works in the public realm.
• Artists must be available to engage in the design and concept development process over late 2025 - early 2026.
Shortlisting
Up to 4 artists will be shortlisted from the Expression of Interest phase and paid a fee for Concept Development. From these a final artist will be awarded the commission.
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The artwork is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the achievements and contributions of women and girls, across all areas of life, and recognise the ongoing efforts to forge their own paths, overcome barriers, and make meaningful contributions to community, culture, and society. Taking into consideration the site and its relationship to the landscape and building design, artists are encouraged to consider one or more of the following creative themes:
• celebrate and affirm the diverse achievements and contributions of women
• acknowledge historical and contemporary barriers women face and overcome
• address the underrepresentation of women in public and professional spaces
• promote inclusion, equality, participation, and leadership for women and girls
• inspire future generations of women to step into public and community life.