New Castle County Seeks Local Artists For Long-term Installation At Executive Offices

PAC is seeking 30 to 40 works from artists based in New Castle County. Artwork in a variety of 2D and 3D mediums, including painting, photography, fiber art, and sculpture, will be considered. (Photo by Alicia Zinn)

NEW CASTLE — New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry and the Public Arts Commission (PAC) have issued a call for local artists to submit works for a new, long-term art installation at the County Executive’s Offices at the Government Center in New Castle.

“In honor of New Castle County’s new County Executive, Marcus Henry, the Public Arts Commission is hosting a county-wide call for artists to display artworks inside the Executive Offices at the Government Center, the central office of County Government,” said Chery Mack, Public Arts Commission Chair.

Selected works will be displayed on a two-year loan basis and will be featured prominently for guests and staff visiting the Executive Offices.

PAC, created in 2023, is a volunteer-led group that helps integrate public art into community spaces and development projects across the county. The PAC is responsible for approving the design and location of public art on county property, acquiring artworks, and overseeing conservation and relocation plans for public works.

For the upcoming installation, PAC is seeking 30 to 40 works from artists based in New Castle County. Artwork in a variety of 2D and 3D mediums, including painting, photography, fiber art, and sculpture, will be considered. Pieces will be displayed on the hallway and boardroom walls, as well as on display platforms and shelves throughout the building. Fine art, folk art, and craft traditions are all encouraged, and both representational and abstract styles will be accepted. Each work will be accompanied by a label and a QR code linking to the artist’s website.

This project is part of a broader effort to spotlight the county’s growing creative economy. According to the Delaware Arts Alliance, Delaware’s arts and cultural sectors produced $3.7 billion in economic output in 2021, with a gross value added of $2.2 billion. County officials noted that hundreds of creative professionals contribute to New Castle County’s economy through their work, providing cultural value and economic benefits.

“Similar public art projects have been carried out for the offices and official residence of Delaware’s past governors as well as the Washington, D.C. offices of Delaware’s congressional representatives,” said Ryan Grover, PAC Administrator.

“This setting for Delaware art exhibitions raises the public awareness of artists working in our own backyards while building valuable bridges to the community that the County serves.”

The competition is open to artists at all professional levels who live or work in New Castle County. Interested artists must submit their applications by May 19, 2025. Selected artists will be notified by June 6, and artworks must be delivered the week of June 9. Artists can submit up to three pieces free of charge.

For more information and to apply online, visit newcastlede.gov/forms.aspx?FID=70.