Call for Artists: 2026 Soccer Ball Hunt 

The Snohomish County Arts Commission, in partnership with the Snohomish County Office of Economic Development, invites artists to submit qualifications for the 2026 Soccer Ball Hunt, a countywide public art project celebrating community, creativity, and global unity. 

This project will feature five large-scale soccer ball sculptures, each approximately 58 inches in diameter, installed in communities across Snohomish County. The sculptures are pre-fabricated marine buoys, a playful nod to the region’s maritime heritage, that will be mounted on stands and transformed through painted original designs by local artists. 

Artists are encouraged to consider how their designs can connect the themes of maritime culture, soccer, community, and unity. 

This is a Request for Qualifications (RFQ). Artists will be selected based on their past experience, artistic style, and ability to complete a project of this scale. Applicants should not submit new artwork proposals at this stage. 

Once selected, artists will collaborate with the Arts Commission’s committee to develop their design concepts and painting schedules. We are looking for artists who can bring their unique vision while working within the logistical framework of the project. 

The sculptures are made of steel and will be primed and sealed by County staff under the consultation of the selected artist. Artists must use professional quality paints and materials suitable for outdoor installation. All sculptures will be staged at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds in Monroe, Washington, where artists will complete their painting. Selected artists must be able to travel to this location for the duration of their work. 

Budget 

• Each selected artist will receive $4,000, inclusive of artist fees and materials. 

• Five artists will be selected. 

• The Arts Commission will coordinate fabrication, installation, and permitting. 
   
   

Eligibility 

• Preference will be given to artists residing in Snohomish County. 

• Artists must be 18 years or older at the time of application. 

• Applicants should have demonstrated experience creating public art or projects of similar scope. 
   
   

Project Timeline 

• July–October 2025 – Outreach to artists and community partners; finalize scope and budget 

• October 21, 2025 – RFQ published 

• November 22, 2025 – Artist selection and consultations begin 

• December 1, 2025 – Final artist selections and design parameters confirmed 

• March 1, 2026 – Final designs submitted for fabrication 

• May 1, 2026 – Sculpture installation begins 

• June 1–7, 2026 – Public unveiling ceremonies 

Dates are subject to change. 

Application Requirements 

• Artist Bio – A short narrative of your artistic background, influences, and experience with public art or similar projects 

• Work Samples – Up to five (5) images of past projects that demonstrate your artistic style and ability to deliver large-scale or community-based work 

• Statement of Interest – A brief paragraph on why you are interested in this project and how your work connects to themes of community and unity 

• Two References — Contact information for two professional references who can speak to your ability to complete this project
   
   

Selection Criteria 

Artists will be selected based on: 

• Artistic merit and creativity demonstrated in prior work 

• Experience completing public art or comparable projects 

• Ability to work collaboratively with community stakeholders and project staff 

• Alignment with the project’s themes of unity, community, and cultural expression 

• Preference given to Snohomish County residents 

A panel composed of Arts Commissioners, community representatives, and project stakeholders will review applications and recommend artists for selection. 

For questions or accommodations, please contact: 
Kari Johnson 
Snohomish County Arts Commission, chair 
Kari.Johnson@snoco.org