Above: Sculptures from the 2023 -2025 Exhibit

Sculpture Exhibit – Call for Entries

Deadline: March 31, 2025

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens partners with the Arts Council of Mendocino County to present a biennial sculpture exhibit set amidst the stunning landscapes of our 47-acre botanical garden. Each year, more than 100,000 visitors explore our meandering paths, where art and nature intertwine, creating an ever-changing experience through the seasons.

Artists have the opportunity to showcase their sculptures in this dynamic outdoor setting, with all pieces available for purchase. Artists receive a 60% commission on sales, while the remaining proceeds support the Arts Council of Mendocino County and the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.

There is no application fee to participate — just an incredible chance to introduce your work to a new audience and display it among the breathtaking blooms of our coastal garden.

 APPLY NOW 

ENTRY GUIDELINES
This exhibition is site-specific in nature. There is no application fee to enter. You may enter up to three sculptures. If your sculpture includes multiple pieces but is meant to be exhibited together, please include it as one entry.

The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens and the Arts Council of Mendocino County are 501(c)3 organizations that partner to provide this mutually beneficial opportunity. We hope you will consider joining as a member or making a donation. We appreciate your support!

Entries will be evaluated against the following criteria:

1. Sculpture enhances and expands visitors’ experience of this unique place and inspires appreciation and thoughtfulness for nature
2. Media and dimensions of sculpture harmonize with the gardens in all seasons
3. Sculpture materials do not pose any risk to the garden ecosystem and are able to withstand or evolve with the outdoor setting and coastal environment over an extended exhibition period
4. The Gardens is a family-friendly and inclusive venue; work must not violate the Gardens' Diversity and Inclusion Policy

CONDITIONS

• Artists will receive a 60% commission of any sales. The remainder will benefit the Arts Council of Mendocino County (ACMC) and the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (MCBG).
• Artists are responsible for delivery and installation of work to MCBG, delivery to the customer should it sell, and retrieval or the work at the end of the display period.
• Preferred location is subject to MCBG approval. Staff reserves the right to relocate the sculpture within the grounds. No artwork is to be displayed on the grassland or ocean bluffs. The majority of the pieces will be situated in the area inside of the Deer Gates.
• Staff of the MCBG and ACMC are not able to provide maintenance support for sculptural work. Sculptures should be able to withstand and/or evolve in outdoor weather conditions. You will be notified if your sculpture needs attention or maintenance.
• Upon installation, if a piece proves to be a hazard to guests or wildlife it is subject to relocation or removal.

APPLICATIONS will be accepted through Monday, March 31, 2025. Please apply online. You can also print the application (download PDF here) and email the completed application and images to administration@gardenbythesea.org or mail to: 

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
Attn: MCBG Sculpture Exhibit
18220 N Highway 1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437