Peoria issues call to artists for \"Light at Play\"

The city of Peoria is searching for visionary artists, designers, and creative teams to help light up downtown Peoria at next spring’s "Light at Play" event. This three-night celebration of illuminated and interactive public art takes place April 9–11, 2026. The festival showcases large-scale projection, immersive media, and interactive installations. Artists are encouraged to explore how light, motion, and technology tell stories and inspire wonder after dark. Submissions are open for artists from Arizona and surrounding states (CA, CO, NM, NV, UT). Examples of eligible works include: • Digital animation • Motion graphics • Projection mapping • Interactive light art • LED or neon sculpture • Kinetic light installations • Augmented reality experiences Applicants should demonstrate: • Proven experience with projection mapping, digital media, or illuminated sculpture. • Technical expertise in interactive or immersive installations suitable for outdoor environments. • Ability to design and implement reliable WebAR or VPS-based augmented reality experiences. In Phase I of the call for artists, applicants only need to submit qualifications. Final artwork proposals are not required. Selected artists will advance to Phase II in December, where detailed site-specific concepts will be developed for the April 2026 event. Project budgets range from $3,000 to $20,000, depending on complexity and scope. The city of Peoria and its production partners will provide standard event infrastructure and equipment to support installations. • Submission Deadline: Nov. 16 • Artists Notified: Dec. 15 • Event Dates: April 9–11, 2026 "Light at Play" will take place along 83rd Avenue between Washington and Monroe streets in downtown Peoria, activating key facades and open spaces with art that glows, moves, and invites community interaction.