Palo Alto Offers Up To $20K For Interactive Downtown Art

PALO ALTO, CA — Palo Alto is seeking artists to transform downtown public spaces with interactive displays of light, sound and technology for its 2027 Code Festival.

Through its Public Art Program, the city is accepting applications from artists and teams worldwide for two opportunities: a featured installation at Lytton Plaza and up to five additional artworks downtown.

The Lytton Plaza installation has a $20,000 project budget. Organizers want an interactive artwork that uses technology to engage visitors, particularly at night.

For the other installations, selected artists or teams can receive project budgets of up to $9,000 each. The temporary artworks may incorporate light, sound, motion, projections or other interactive technology in downtown plazas, alleys and public spaces.

The opportunities give artists a chance to showcase their work in downtown Palo Alto while encouraging residents and visitors to engage with public art in new ways.

Artists can submit existing works or propose new concepts based on their qualifications and previous projects. Although applications are open nationally and internationally, Palo Alto particularly encourages artists from Santa Clara and San Mateo counties to apply.

Code is a free, biennial festival featuring interactive media art, performances and public programming. Returning for its fifth edition, the four-night event encourages visitors to experience downtown through technology-driven artwork.

Next year's festival is scheduled for Oct. 13-16, 2027, with installations planned throughout downtown Palo Alto.

Applications are due Monday, Nov. 16, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific time through SlideRoom. There is no application fee.

Artists can review eligibility requirements and application instructions on the city's artist opportunities webpage.