36th Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Exhibition

May 23, 2022 - May 14, 2023

The Rosen Sculpture Competition and Exhibition is a national juried competition presented annually by An Appalachian Summer Festival and the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts. Since its establishment by Martin and Doris Rosen in 1987, the Rosen Competition continues a tradition of showcasing contemporary American sculpture in outdoor settings across the beautiful campus of Appalachian State University.

The competition, in its 36th year, has become firmly established as a cultural treasure and a significant point of pride for Appalachian State University and our entire region. The competition has garnered national praise for the free access to the “best of the best” in contemporary sculpture it offers for countless residents and visitors across North Carolina and beyond.

The Rosen Family proudly continues the legacy of Martin and Doris by generously supporting this important program dedicated to sharing the power and joy of public art, creating a fascinating glimpse into the world of contemporary sculpture, and building new audiences for the visual arts.

This program is made possible by the generous support of the Martin & Doris Rosen Giving Fund/Debbie Rosen Davidson and David Rosen and the Charles & Nancy Rosenblatt Foundation.

Competition Entry Information for Artists

Each year, ten sculptures are selected for installation in outdoor, public settings across the university campus. Cash prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place and all artists whose works are installed will receive an honorarium. The Rosen Award winners are announced at the Annual Sculpture Walk with the Juror in July, a highlight of the summer festival season.

Entries will be accepted beginning January 10, 2022. The application deadline is Saturday February 25, 2022 @ 5 pm, EST.

For additional information about the competition and how to enter, download the prospectus here: 36th Rosen Sculpture Competition Prospectus.