Call for Artists
Memorial Commission Celebrating the Life of Dylan Wall
Hosted by: Columbus Public Library
Submission Deadline: August 1, 2025
Medium: Visual art on canvas | Commission: $1,500
The Columbus Public Library is seeking a visual artist to create a commissioned memorial artwork in honor of Dylan Wall, a cherished staff member whose presence left a lasting impression on colleagues, friends, and library patrons alike.
This project is an opportunity to celebrate a life deeply lived, filled with intellectual curiosity, gentle kindness, and quiet joy and to transform that spirit into a lasting piece of public art.
About the Project
Artists are invited to submit original work that reflects the essence of Dylan's spirit—his warmth, compassion, and love for life’s simple pleasures.
Dylan was deeply connected to the people around him. He loved helping others, building meaningful relationships, and was endlessly curious about the world. His background in psychology and anthropology gave him a unique perspective on human connection and cultural expression, and his passions were just as diverse: long bike rides on country roads; bird watching in peaceful moments; strumming guitars; escaping into films; reading everything he could
and crafting words through writing.
He even found joy in the nostalgic aisles of old hardware stores—a reminder that for Dylan, beauty existed in the everyday.
What They are Looking For
The Columbus Public Library is seeking a canvas-based visual art piece that is:
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Uplifting and honors the richness of Dylan’s life
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Thoughtful and speaks to his connection to others
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Durable, able to withstand display in a public space with children
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Harmonious with the architecture and existing art within the library building
The final work will be installed in the second floor lobby of the Columbus Community Building, in a 5-foot-high by 7-foot-wide space. Artists are encouraged to visit the site or review the attached images for context.
Submission Requirements
To apply, please submit a single PDF with the following materials by August 1, 2025 to: [email protected]
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Sample Images: Up to 3 color images of the proposed artwork
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Artwork Description: Briefly describe the materials, protective measures, and how the piece aligns with Dylan’s life and the library space
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Resume: Include contact details and websites for all members of your artist team
Selection + Timeline
Submissions will be reviewed by an internal selection group using the following criteria:
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Connection to Dylan’s personality and values
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Originality of the artwork
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Ability to fully install the piece within the required timeframe
Key Dates:
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Submission Deadline: August 1, 2025
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Notification of Acceptance: September 1, 2025
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Installation Deadline: November 1, 2025
Artist Stipend: $1,500
Artists are responsible for materials, insurance, installation, and delivery/shipping.
Questions
Contact:
Jeri Hopkins at (402) 562-4204
[email protected]
This is more than a commission—it's a chance to reflect on a life well-lived and create something that brings that legacy to light for others. We hope you’ll consider submitting a piece that celebrates Dylan’s joy, kindness, and enduring love for people and the world around him.
