Sculpture Garden Installation Day at the Clear Lake Arts Center

Out with the old, in with the bold! Mark your calendars for May 19, 2026 it’s Sculpture Installation Day at the Sukup Lakeside Courtyard Sculpture Garden, and the transformation happens right before your eyes. Each year, the courtyard refreshes its collection, and this season is especially exciting. The Clear Lake Arts Center is partnering with the University of Northern Iowa School of Art and the Public Art Incubator (PAI) to bring a full day of creative energy to the community. Ten artists, professors and students will install ten sculptures in a single day. Nine new works will take their place at the Arts Center, with one additional piece installed at Central Gardens. Late morning through late afternoon, you’ll see art in motion, cranes lifting, teams collaborating, and ideas becoming reality. Stop by, meet the artists, ask questions, and fill your camera roll. (Just be sure to admire from a safe distance while installation is underway!) About the Public Art Incubator The Public Art Incubator (PAI) is a unique program within the University of Northern Iowa Art Department that connects artists with communities to create artwork for public spaces. Public art is a rapidly growing field across the United States, enhancing quality of life while supporting community identity and economic development. The PAI provides technical resources that help both emerging and professional artists develop and realize public art projects. Each project challenges students to problem-solve, innovate fabrication techniques, and think creatively about how art lives in public environments. Students work directly alongside professional artists, gaining real-world experience as collaborators while helping shape the spaces and communities we share. The program also supports regional communities by consulting on future public art initiatives and assisting with the maintenance and restoration of existing works. By sponsoring student artwork for public installation, the PAI helps young artists build professional portfolios and launch competitive careers after graduation. Take a piece home All participating artists receive a stipend through the Arts Center to support the time, travel, installation, and effort required to share their vision. And if a sculpture speaks to you for your home, yard, or business all works are available for purchase through consigned sale. Come watch art rise, spaces transform, and creativity take shape all in one day. We’ll see you in the Sukup Lakeside Courtyard Sculpture Garden!