Call For Artists: Deck the Boughs

Call for artists to Deck the Boughs We are seeking up to three artists to create imaginative ornaments or installations to hang in trees or to be placed in the Arboretum during the month of December. The ornaments or installations must use primarily natural or recycled materials, and preference will be given to ornaments that can withstand the weather and be reused. More expansive projects than ornaments for one tree will be considered, with fee to be negotiated. All ornaments become the property of the Evergreen Arboretum and Gardens. Deck the Boughs Background After five years of installing tree lights for night viewing, the Arboretum changed to a daytime event in 2025 that featured willow stars, crocheted birds and animals, pinecone gnomes, pompoms, and tassels hung in trees. There were also three wishing trees, a winter solstice walk, and wildflower seed sowing. We would like to expand on the idea of natural ornamentation and/or recycled materials in 2026. In previous years about 10,000 people of all ages visited the gardens during the month of December. Submittals Please present your artist biography (including name, email, phone, and address), previous works, and a concept for your ornaments. Proposals should be sent to: contactus@evergreenarboretum.com and simmons.eileen@gmail.com If a specific tree is desired, selection must be confirmed with the selection committee. Artist Fee $1,500 per artist for creation and installation. Installation/removal assistance from the Arboretum must be negotiated in advance. Timeline Receipt of biography, previous works and concept: Friday, August 28, 2026 Selection Committee decision: September 16, 2026 Installation to be completed by November 30, 2026 Ornaments will be removed by January 16, 2027 Site tours prior to submitting a proposal are encouraged. Agreement The artist, by submitting an entry form and images, consents for EA&G to use their name and images of art for promotional purposes, in print or online, if their art is accepted into the exhibition. Artists will be asked to sign an agreement detailing these terms once they have been accepted. Questions Questions about the exhibit or submission process may be sent to the Eileen Simmons at simmons.eileen@gmail.com‍ ‍ Email: contactus@evergreenarboretum.com to arrange a visit. The Arboretum is at the south end of American Legion Park, 145 Alverson Blvd., Everett. www.evergreenarboretum.com