#USA #Visalia #Art Installation #Sequoia Tree

Call for Art Proposals: Celebrating Visalia's Heritage

In an exciting development for the arts community, Visit Visalia, in collaboration with Arts Visalia and Visalia Heritage, has opened a call for submissions from qualified artists and design teams. The initiative revolves around the replacement of the Sequoia Legacy Tree, a beloved symbol of the community that stood for nearly a century.

The original Sequoia Tree was gifted nearly 100 years ago by the Superintendent of General Grant National Park to a then-Postmaster in Visalia, making its presence a significant part of the town's identity. With the tree's recent removal, a unique opportunity has surfaced, giving local artists a chance to propose an inspiring public art piece that will replace the tree. This new installation aims to celebrate Visalia's enduring connection with the nearby Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, educating and engaging the public through art.

Design Considerations

Artists are encouraged to submit designs that not only reflect the local history of Visalia but also promote ecological awareness. The project site will be located at a modest parklet on the US Post Office property, covering approximately 3,885 square feet. This space features a circular walking path with a circumference of about 102 feet, intended to mimic the size of the renowned General Sherman Tree's base.

Expectations and Submission Details

As stated by Sherrie Bakke, executive director of Visit Visalia, "This installation will celebrate our ties to the Sequoias and inspire future generations." Submissions for the project must include:

• - A letter of interest
• - A resume or CV
• - Three work samples showcasing prior experience
• - A brief design concept outline
• - A preliminary project budget
• - Maintenance considerations for the installation

The project is open to both regional and national artists or teams with experience in public art. Interested candidates should prepare to submit their proposals by the noted deadlines. Letters of interest are due by September 1, 2025, while comprehensive proposals must be submitted by November 30, 2025.

Get Involved

This initiative presents an exciting chance for creatives to engage with the community and leave a lasting mark on Visalia's cultural landscape. Artists who wish to learn more about the project and submission requirements are encouraged to visit the dedicated webpage at Visit Visalia’s RFP.

Through this project, Visalia aims not only to honor its past but also to foster a vibrant arts scene that speaks to future generations. As the community awaits the proposals, the anticipation builds for the installment that will soon celebrate the deep roots of art and nature in Visalia.

For anyone who appreciates art in public spaces, this artistic endeavor promises to be a meaningful addition to Visalia's landscape, intertwining the past with a vision for an inspired future.