Call For art and performance

The application period WAS open July 11 through September 22, 2023.

This call is for individual artists, artist groups, and performers who do not already have a location for their installations. One installation per application; multiple applications are ok. One designated contact per application. Artists from BIPOC communities, LGBTQIA+ communities, artists with disabilities, and other historically underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply, even if they have not shown professionally in the past. 

The 2024 festival is February 2 – 10, and the theme is What Glows Under Pressure.

As in previous years, installations must include a lighting component and can take the form of light-based art, sculptures in windows, colorful and creative outdoor lighting, installations in your own yard or neighborhood, video projections, a performance that incorporates light, and more. All installations and performances must be family-friendly and suitable for a diverse audience. 

If possible, we encourage artists to find their own venue to show their installations. Light up your buildings, exteriors, houses, and yards. Find a local business that would like to showcase your work. Ask your neighbors to be involved and create a light community around your PDXWLF exhibition.

PDXWLF will work to match artists to available venues. In some cases, we may love your work but not be able to find an appropriate place for the installation. In that case, we encourage you to apply again next year.

We will be placing your art in either indoor or outdoor locations. Indoor locations include pop-up sites in windows, storefronts, and empty retail spaces and can typically display slightly smaller pieces. Outdoor-suitable art may be placed at one of the outdoor anchor art locations or other venues. Please indicate on your application if your piece suits indoor or outdoor displays. Note that the weather can be severe in February, and if it is suitable for outdoor display, no coverage from the elements will be available.  

The festival takes place over nine days. We request that, when possible, all art in pop-up locations be illuminated throughout the festival. The outdoor art placed at anchor sites (World Trade Center, Pioneer Courthouse Square & The Electric Blocks) will only be illuminated on Fridays and Saturdays.

In some venues, artists must provide their own insurance policy.