June 12, 2026
SVSU invites artists to submit proposals for featured art installation
Original work will be displayed at SVSU’s new Center for Community Involvement and Experiential Learning, opening Sept. 2026
Saginaw Valley State University invites local and regional artists to submit proposals for an original artwork that represents the mission and values of the university’s new Center for Community Involvement and Experiential Learning, a space dedicated to strengthening partnerships between SVSU and the communities it serves. The selected artist will be awarded a $1,000 prize.
The Center, located in Gilbertson Hall near the front of SVSU’s campus, is scheduled to open this fall. The artwork will be unveiled during the center’s grand opening celebration in September.
“SVSU has a long and proud tradition of engaging with and serving the communities throughout our region,” said Dawn Hinton, SVSU associate provost. “Through the relaunched and reimagined Center for Community Engagement and Experiential Learning, we will provide opportunities for SVSU students and faculty to engage more fully with community partners, reaping benefits for all.”
About the Project
The selected artwork will reflect the spirit of connection between SVSU and the communities it serves. The piece should embody collaboration, shared learning and the transformative power of partnerships.
Theme
Artists are encouraged to consider:
• Community voice and representation
• Collaboration and partnership
• Belonging and shared spaces
• Impact and transformation
• Regional identity and pride
Artwork Specifications
• Medium: Any 2d media or similar is welcome.
• The artwork must be scalable as the final work will be reproduced on a 6' x 15' vinyl banner to be installed in the space. Saginaw Valley State University will coordinate and oversee production and installation of the banner. The banner will become the property of the university; the original artwork will remain the property of the artist.
• Artwork must be suitable for a public, university space.
• All SVSU brand standards for logo use must be followed. The SVSU cardinal and logo may not be altered or distorted in any way. The SVSU cardinal logo is the only cardinal that may be used to represent SVSU. Brand guidelines may be found at svsu.edu/creativehub.
• Size and installation details will be finalized in collaboration with the selected artist
Eligibility
• Open to local and regional artists (including college students and emerging artists)
• Individual artists or collaborative teams are welcome.
Submission Requirements
• Artist statement (one page maximum)
• Proposal concept (including how it connects to the Center’s vision)
• Visual mock-up or sketches
• Portfolio of past work (3-5 samples)
• Résumé or brief biography
Selection Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on:
• Alignment with the Center’s mission and theme
• Creativity and originality
• Demonstrated artistic skill.
Artist Prize
$1,000 (inclusive of artist’s fee, time and materials; does not include reproduction on vinyl banner or installation)
Timeline
• Submission Deadline: Friday, July 10, 2026
• Artist Notification: Friday, July 24, 2026
• Installation Completion: Friday, August 21, 2026
How to Apply
Submit materials electronically to: communityengagement@svsu.edu
Use the Subject Line: Community Engagement Art Submission – [Artist’s Name]
Questions
For inquiries, please contact: Dawn Hinton, SVSU associate provost, (hinton@svsu.edu).