The City of Sacramento is seeking professional artists to apply for “Birds and Benches,” a two-phase public art project that will bring up to eight artist-designed benches to North Natomas Regional Park (NNRP).
Managed by the Office of Arts and Culture’s Art in Public Places (APP) program, the project is funded through the Arts in Public Places ordinance which puts 2% of eligible construction costs towards funds to be spent on public art.
The project aims to enhance public access and enjoyment of the park while celebrating the bird-rich habitat of the Natomas Basin.
“Birds and Benches is an opportunity for local and regional artists to build meaningful community relationships while leaving a lasting mark in one of our city’s most important natural spaces,” said Amie Tokuhama-Chapman, arts program assistant with the Office of Arts and Culture.
Project overview
NNRP is a 212-acre green space located near Inderkum High School, the North Natomas Community Center and Aquatics Complex, and the local library branch. While the park features trails, fields, and natural areas, it currently has few places for visitors to rest and observe local wildlife. The Birds and Benches project will address that need through functional and artistically designed seating.
- Phase 1 will select five Artist Ambassadors to collaborate with local organizations and engage the community through public meetings, workshops, and original artworks centered on the theme of birds in the basin. Artists of all disciplines, including visual, literary, performing, and social practice, are eligible to apply. Each ambassador will receive a $6,000 stipend.
- Phase 2 will commission up to eight sculpture artists to design and fabricate permanent benches inspired by Phase 1 engagement. Each artist will receive $25,000 and may work with APP-provided fabricators. Artists are responsible for delivering and overseeing installation; APP will handle all other installation logistics.
An Engagement Manager role is also available to coordinate activities across both phases, with compensation up to $10,000.
Applicants must be 18 or older and may apply for multiple roles but will be selected for only one. Additional consideration will be given to those with experience or connections to NNRP or the greater Sacramento Valley area.
Applications must be submitted online by 11:59 p.m. on July 28, 2025.
Full details, including eligibility guidelines and the request for qualifications (RFQs), are available in the project’s information packet on the submission website.
The June 25 information session is available to watch below or on the Office of Arts and Culture’s YouTube channel.
