The Mitchelville Heritage Trail Competition: Design Challenge, Outdoor Public Art Installations

Mitchelville is a story of the triumph of freedom over slavery as a way of life, a pivotal point in American history, the start of the enjoyment of citizenship rights guaranteed to other Americans, but previously denied to America’s builders, the formerly enslaved. However, it also is a guidepost, reminding us that a country established upon the noblest and highest ideals has fully yet to achieve them, and has much to learn about itself from its own history. With no other site serving as such a template or illuminating the authentic story of the place where freedom began for America’s Black citizens, Historic Mitchelville is uniquely positioned to: Broaden the awareness and recognition of its rich story.

Design Challenge:
Outdoor Public Art Installations

Creatives are asked to interpret the themes that represent the story of Mitchelville with art installation designs that capture the essence of Mitchelville’s importance in American history. The Mitchelville Heritage Trail Competition is open to professionals, students and other individuals within the United States.

• See illustrative exhibits and images for a sense of the character of each site.
• All artworks must be offset 5’ minimum from the trail to allow maintenance vehicles to pass.
• All proposed materials for fabrication must be suitable for saltwater environments.
• All proposed designs must consider defensible design, suitable for public safety.

Entrants are strongly encouraged to become familiar with Mitchelville’s history, purpose, and development plans: https://exploremitchelville.org