Code:ART 2027 Palo Alto Invites Global Interactive Media Installations — Up to $9,000 Per Project
The City of Palo Alto's Public Art Program has launched a call for temporary interactive-media installations at Code:ART 2027, planned for October 13–16, 2027. Up to five projects may be commissioned, with a maximum total budget of $9,000 for each selected installation. The application deadline is November 16, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time. This is a separate opportunity from the city's $20,000 Lytton Plaza commission.
What kind of work is sought?
The festival brings digital art into outdoor public space, with possibilities ranging from responsive video, projection and interactive light to sensing, sound and participatory technologies. Applicants should consider weather exposure, public access, accessibility, maintenance, electricity and visitor interaction. Existing works can be proposed when appropriately adapted, and finished fabrication is not required simply to file the initial application.
Who can submit?
The city invites international artists over age 18 and interdisciplinary teams that satisfy the call's adult-participant requirements. A clear statement of artistic intention, portfolio and practical implementation plan matter as much as eye-catching visuals. The city also specifies how AI-assisted visual material and original rights should be disclosed.
Budget considerations
The maximum $9,000 is a project budget rather than a separate personal prize; the artist needs to account for fabrication, equipment, shipping, travel, accommodation and setup inside it. Applicants should budget conservatively and explicitly indicate logistical dependencies, permits or unusual infrastructure needs.
Apply through an official portal
Use the Palo Alto Public Art Program's SlideRoom portal at https://cpapublicart.slideroom.com/ and refer to the municipality's full PDF call. The organizer describes the application itself as free. Palo Alto's public arts office issues the rules and is the most reliable point of contact for this commissioned public art opportunity.
Deadline
November 16, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time. Verify the final project contract, installation requirements and intellectual property clauses before accepting a commission.
Official source and application
Information checked October 24, 2026. Always consult the organizer for final rules and updated deadlines.