"Shifting Gears" by Hilde DeBruyne from Cumming, Iowa

A public art endeavor in Jefferson is seeking submissions for its next competitive cycle.

Jefferson Matters Executive Director Matt Wetrich says they are accepting applications for the Ring Out for Art Contest, where sculptors have a chance to be a finalist and have their artwork on display on the downtown square in Jefferson. He points out that about 30 submissions have been made so far and that last year was a banner year for the competition.

“And it’s cool to see that Jefferson, Iowa is on the radar for artists around the country, we even had one from Canada, of course, that was on display. So that’s really neat that we are growing that reputation for being an art community.”   

Wetrich adds that four finalists will receive a $1,000 stipend from Home State Bank to make their sculptures and then have those installed on the Greene County Courthouse south plaza. He says the overall winner will additionally earn $500, also from Home State Bank and will have their artwork remain in Jefferson from August 2026 to May 1, 2027. He thanks Tower View Team as the leading organization for this contest. The deadline to submit an application is by 5pm on Monday. Click here for a copy of the application form.