Arts Services Inc. (ASI), in partnership with NYS Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera, is seeking proposals from artists and designers across Western New York for a unique public art opportunity: the creation of a large-scale sculptural signpost celebrating Buffalo’s 17 Sister Cities.

The commissioned sculpture will be permanently installed near the historic Immigrant Steps at Canalside, anchoring the city’s rich immigrant heritage to its international connections through the Sister Cities program. This project also commemorates the 200th Anniversary of the Erie Canal in 2025, which will be celebrated through public programming from May to September.

About the Project

The selected artist will design, fabricate, and install a sculptural signpost standing 13–15 feet high, with double-sided directional panels representing each of Buffalo’s Sister Cities. Each sign will include the city’s name, country, flag, and distance from Buffalo in both miles and kilometers. A “Buffalo Sister Cities” topper and symbolic elements like the U.S. and Buffalo flags will crown the piece.

This is a rare and exciting call for sculptural work—artists working in 3D mediums are especially encouraged to apply.

Commission Details

  • Budget: Up to $10,000
  • Eligibility: Open to artists living in Erie, Niagara, Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties
  • Deadline: Proposals due by 5 PM on Wednesday, June 18, 2025
  • Installation Deadline: No later than September 1, 2025

How to Apply

Artists must submit their proposals via the online Jotform application linked below. Proposals are due by 5 PM on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.

  • Contact information (email, phone, address)
  • A written description of the proposed work (materials and dimensions)
  • Sketch(es) or renderings of the design
  • A detailed budget (including artist fees, materials, supplies, and other expenses)
  • A cost estimate on fabricator letterhead or a letter of agreement
  • Examples of past work
  • Information and examples of any vendors/fabricators involved

Artists are responsible for fabrication and transportation of the completed piece. On-site installation will be coordinated by Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation. The final sculpture must be installed no later than September 1, 2025.