Reno Western Lights Festival 2027: Up to $6,500 for Local Projection and Interactive Light Art
The City of Reno, Nevada, is requesting proposals for light-based public art during the 2027 Western Lights Festival, 18–20 February 2027. Eligible work includes projection mapping, illuminated installations, interactive digital pieces and performance with light technology. The application deadline is 30 November 2026, 11:00 p.m. Pacific time. The city has allocated US$35,000 across multiple projects, with individual proposals capped at US$6,500. Crucially, this is a regional call restricted to artists residing within 150 miles of Reno.
Who qualifies: the 150-mile rule is mandatory
Individual applicants or lead team members must be at least 18 and must live within 150 miles of Reno, typically in northern Nevada or northern California. The page welcomes artists of many backgrounds but does not remove this residency requirement. Teams can submit collaboratively under one application. Preference goes to projects with a realistic plan and demonstrated public-space installation experience. Artists based elsewhere in the United States or abroad should not invest time in a proposal without meeting the location restriction.
Creative work and technical expectations
Projects must feature light or illumination as a significant component. Suitable concepts may involve projection mapping, interactive digital installations, illuminated sculpture, wearable lights for performance, or audience-participation environments. Works should withstand outdoor winter conditions, be safe to walk around, and provide credible setup and takedown plans. The city favours existing projects for budget reasons but also considers new work. An applicant must plan electrical, weather, insurance, equipment and transport requirements.
Budget is a ceiling, not a prize paid on entry
The Western Lights programme has a total budget of US$35,000 to fund several installations. A project may request no more than US$6,500, covering fabrication, design as appropriate, the artist's fee, insurance, travel, technical equipment and installation costs. Selection and the actual commission amount depend on feasibility and funding; the amount is not an automatic award for a successful form submission. Applicants provide a work concept, image references, itemised budget, experience statement and artist biographies via the official Submittable portal.
Government organiser and safe submission
Reno Arts & Culture operates the call for this publicly accessible city-centre festival and publishes the residency limit, production specifications and budget policy on a City of Reno-branded Submittable application. Use that link through Reno's municipal online account, review the detailed guidelines and keep written confirmation of any contract terms and insurance requirements before building a new installation.
Official organiser rules and application
Information reviewed 22 October 2026. Before applying, check the current official deadlines, eligibility, fees and rights conditions.