Common Build

Ongoing

Common Build: Gowanus

Please note: the Open Call is now closed and no new applications will be accepted.

Van Alen Institute is currently seeking emerging designers and artists to apply for Common Build: Gowanus. This project will create a temporary lighting installation that serves as a “gateway” to Gowanus — while providing artists/designers with tactical support activating public space, connections with community members, and access to Van Alen’s network of design professionals.

We’re seeking to create a site-specific, highly-visible lighting installation that activates underutilized public space. The project should be a bold visual anchor, reflecting the neighborhood’s unique character and energy. It should also encourage foot traffic to small business commercial corridors and reinforce GoWalkabout Gowanus (@exploregowanus), the area’s emerging wayfinding strategy.

Please note, this Open Call is not a request for proposals (RFP). In September 2025, a shortlist of applicants will receive the RFP and a winning proposal will be chosen by late October. The selected project will be on display for up to 11 months, beginning in Spring 2026.

Shortlisted applicants will receive $2,000 upon submission of their design proposals. The winning artist/designer will receive a $23,000 fee for development and delivery of the project, and will be awarded $75,000 for direct expenses of the project’s production, fabrication, and installation. Shortlisted and winning artists/designers will chosen by a committee of local residents and community leaders, in collaboration with Van Alen Institute.

Common Build: Gowanus is made possible by a $100,000 Public Realm Grant for Commercial District Lighting awarded through the NYC Department of Small Business Services.

Who should apply to the open call?
Emerging artists, designers, and studios with relevant experience creating public art and design projects. Participants should have completed at least one public-facing and/or community-engaged projects, at least two years of professional work experience, and be based in the New York metropolitan area. Gowanus-based artists/designers are strongly encouraged to apply.

Can a team, duo, or studio apply?
Yes! Only one person from the group needs to apply to the open call, but your responses should reflect the availability, opinion, and work of the group. Please note, if your team is selected to submit a proposal, you will split the $2,000 payment for the proposal among your team members.

What’s the most important part of the application?
Van Alen is especially interested in seeing previous public art and community engagement projects you’ve worked on.

Does Van Alen help with site identification and/or the permitting process?
It’s the responsibility of the selected artist/designer to identify specific sites and their respective permitting processes. Van Alen will support their efforts as needed and share existing neighborhood and city agency contacts.