Willoughby Holiday Snow Globe Public Art Project

Design a Landmark Holiday Attraction Celebrating the Character of Willoughby, Ohio

The City of Willoughby invites professional artists, sculptors, fabricators, designers, and creative teams to submit qualifications and concept proposals for the design of a 4-foot-diameter walk-up snow globe with a decorative base to serve as a seasonal public art installation during the holiday season.

The snow globe will be installed in a prominent public location and will become a signature holiday attraction, creating a memorable experience for residents and visitors while celebrating the history, heritage, and character of Willoughby.

Project Theme

“Winter in Willoughby”

The selected artist will create a large-scale sculptural scene inside a transparent 4-foot-diameter snow globe that captures the charm of Willoughby with the warmth, nostalgia, and wonder of the holiday season.

Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from:

• The charm and character of Downtown Willoughby
• The community’s unique sense of place
• Local holiday traditions and celebrations
• Willoughby’s architecture, streetscapes, and public spaces
• The energy and atmosphere of a festive downtown
• The magic, warmth, and nostalgia of the holiday season
• The experience of gathering, celebrating, and enjoying the holidays in Willoughby

Project Description

The installation will consist of:

• A transparent snow globe approximately 4 feet in diameter
• An integrated decorative base approximately 18 – 30 inches in height
• Interior sculptural elements designed to be viewed from all sides
• Durable materials suitable for outdoor seasonal display
• Opportunities for visitor interaction and photography

The completed snow globe should function as both a public art piece and a holiday destination that encourages community engagement, creates memorable experiences, and provides opportunities for photos and social media sharing.

Design Considerations

The artwork should:

• Be visually compelling from a distance and at close range
• Capture the character and charm of Willoughby
• Incorporate holiday-themed elements such as snow, wreaths, garland, decorated trees, lights, or seasonal streetscapes
• Be family-friendly and accessible to all ages
• Provide strong photographic opportunities for visitors
• Maintain visual interest from multiple viewing angles
• Be suitable for fabrication, transportation, installation, and seasonal storage

Preferred Design Direction

Artists are encouraged to consider a three-dimensional interpretation of the charm and character of Downtown Willoughby during the holiday season. Creative interpretations are welcome. The city is interested in a design that feels uniquely Willoughby while creating a sense of excitement for the holiday season.

Artist Scope of Services

The selected artist will be responsible for:

• Final design development
• Fabrication drawings and specifications
• Coordination with fabricators and installers
• Fabrication oversight
• Installation consultation

Submission Requirements

Artists shall submit:

• Letter of interest
• Concept statement (maximum 500 words)
• Preliminary sketches or renderings
• Portfolio demonstrating experience with public art, sculpture, fabrication, or placemaking projects
• Résumé or qualifications
• References from comparable projects
• Photos or examples of other similar projects, including snow globe projects if applicable

Selection Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

• Artistic excellence
• Creativity and originality
• Connection to the character and identity of Willoughby
• Feasibility and durability
• Experience with public art installations
• Specific experience with the design, construction, and installation of a snow globe as described herein
• Ability to create a memorable holiday destination
• Compatibility with the project budget

Budget

The total project budget is not to exceed $4,000.00, inclusive of artist fees, design development, fabrication of snow globe and base, transportation, and installation unless otherwise specified.

Schedule

Call for Artists Released: September 4, 2026

Questions Due: September 11, 2026

Submission Deadline: September 18, 2026

Artist Selection: September 21, 2026

Installation: by December 2, 2026 (City Tree Lighting Ceremony is December 3, 2026)

Holiday Display: December 2, 2026 – January 11, 2027

Project Goal

The City of Willoughby seeks a signature holiday installation that feels distinctly Willoughby – one that captures the city’s charm and character and brings the magic of the season, strengthens community pride, enhances the holiday experience in downtown Willoughby, and creates a memorable seasonal tradition for residents and visitors to enjoy for years to come.

Submissions

Submissions can be emailed or delivered to:

info@willoughbyohio.com (subject: Snow Globe)

Willoughby City Hall
Parks and Recreation Department
1 Public Square
Willoughby, OH 44094

For questions, please contact: 440.953.4200

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