Eligibility
All local, regional, and international artists, artist teams, architects, designers, and multimedia specialists are invited to submit a proposal. International artists who apply must have remote installation as an option for their proposal.
Budget
We will accept budgets between $5,000 and $35,000 (with a limited number of larger budgets, up to $45,000 USD, being awarded to new commissions and/or major works of a larger physical scale).
Description
Canal Convergence seeks proposals for outdoor, temporary public artworks to be featured in and around the Arizona Canal at the Scottsdale Waterfront in Scottsdale, Arizona. Canal Convergence will be on view for ten days, from Nov. 6–15, 2026. Some projects may be selected to remain installed for an additional 1 to 2 months after the Canal Convergence event dates.
Theme: Most Western
Canal Convergence is deeply connected to the visual and cultural landscapes of Arizona and the American west. Taking place in Scottsdale, Arizona—known as “The West’s Most Western Town,”—the event honors its roots by activating the Arizona Canal with public art, commissioning numerous local artists, musicians, and performers, and more. This year’s Canal Convergence will emphasize its connection to western life and culture further with the featured theme, “Most Western.”
As Canal Convergence plans its 15th year and the City of Scottsdale commemorates its 75-year anniversary, Scottsdale Arts is seeking public art proposals that reflect, embody, or explore the American west and Arizona. Artists are invited to consider a wide range of subjects, from physical elements like water resources, natural landscapes, native flora and fauna, and climate, to more complex topics like the diverse cultures, histories, artistic genres, and characteristics of the American west. If an artist decides to explore the cultural landscape of the American west in their proposal, they must be cautious to avoid cultural appropriation.
Download the RFP Information Packet to review the full Canal Convergence 2026 featured-theme curatorial statement.
This call is specifically targeting outdoor, light-based installations. Nighttime presence/activation is required; daytime presence/activation is encouraged.
All submissions will be accepted via Submittable.com.
Canal Convergence 2026 RFP Information and Submission Links
Download the Request for Proposals document: Request For Proposals PDF
Download the artwork installation sites information: Artwork Installation Sites
Submit your application: Submit your Application
Questions?
Questions regarding the RFP should be directed to Jennifer Gill, Deputy Director of Canal Convergence, at JenniferG@ScottsdaleArts.org.
Artist Info Sessions:
Jennifer is also offering artists the opportunity to schedule 30-minute (max.) meetings via Zoom or phone call in March to discuss their ideas for Canal Convergence. The available dates for these sessions are Thursday, March 12, and Friday, March 27, 2026. Schedule your session here: Artist Info Sessions
Photo: Long Wave by Pneuhaus, Canal Convergence 2025. Photo: David Blakeman.