The Shrine of Lourdes in Litchfield invites sculptors to submit proposals for an outdoor sculpture installation as part of the upcoming 2026 Inaugural Montfort Sculpture Exhibition focusing on the theme Contemplation<> Reflection.
The shrine is seeking talented area sculptors to create a temporary 6-month installation that will be displayed from May to November 2026. The exhibition will be open from dawn to dusk daily.
The 125-acre property is approximately five miles from Route 8, just outside Litchfield center off Route 118, and it includes a beautiful and graceful five-acre meadow by the Bantam River.
There will be a minimum of sixteen 20 x 20 foot “spaces” where sculptors will install their accepted pieces after April 1, 2026, through May 14, 2026. There is an application fee of $40 to support the promotion of the exhibition (with financial assistance to artists if needed).
Installations can also be offered for sale. However, if sold, the art installation must remain on the site until the exhibition’s closing. The shrine suggests that 15 percent of the sale price be donated to the shrine, a 501(3)c non-profit, to assist in keeping the site open and naturally beautiful for all to enjoy. The annual cost of upkeep of the property exceeds $750,000.
The exhibition will open with a public reception at 2 p.m. on May 16, 2026, and close with the Community Choice Award Ceremony on November 15, 2026. RSVP for the reception here.
This project aims to enrich the community’s cultural landscape, bringing people outside to meditate and reflect, as well as bringing vibrant, accessible art to the public.
For questions, contact the Shrine Office at 860 567-1041 (Mon – Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.).See the shrine’s website for full details.
