Cool Spring Downtown District (CSDD) is thrilled to announce a unique and creative opportunity for local artists, arts organizations, and downtown businesses as part of their Fiesta Latina 4th Friday, celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. CSDD invites the local creative community to participate in *Esqueletos Creativos: A Dia de Muertos Art Challenge.

CSDD is seeking artists to transform prefabricated, 8-foot-tall animatronic skeletons into imaginative artworks inspired by *Dia de Muertos*. This traditional Mexican holiday honors the reunion of families with their deceased relatives through food, drink and celebration. Selected artworks will be publicly displayed during their vibrant Fourth Friday celebration on Sept. 27, 2024, bringing cultural vibrancy to the heart of Downtown Fayetteville.

Key Dates and Details:

Entry Deadline: Sept. 9, 2024, by 5:00 PM  

Artist Notification: Sept. 13, 2024  

Skeleton Return Date: Sept.  25, 2024  

Installation Date: Sept.  27, 2024

Eligibility

The *Esqueletos Creativos* challenge is open to local artists, arts organizations, and downtown businesses based in Cumberland County. Applicants must be 16 years or older to participate.

Specifications

Artists will be provided with disassembled 8-foot-tall skeletons measuring 39”D x 37”W x 96”H, which they are encouraged to transform creatively. While designs should be inspired by Dia de Muertos, they must remain non-religious, apolitical, free of licensed/corporate branding, and non-pornographic.

How to Apply 

To apply, artists must submit a written artist statement (no more than 250 words) along with 2-3 digital images or sketches of their proposed concept. All application materials should be submitted via email to info@coolspringfay.org by 5:00 PM on September 9, 2024. The email subject heading should read Submission: Esqueletos Creativos.

Stipend and Awards 

Selected artists will receive a $250 stipend to cover time and supplies. A public vote will also be held to determine the community's favorite skeleton, with the winning artist receiving a $250 cash prize.

Join CSDD in Celebrating Culture and Creativity 

CSDD invites the Fayetteville community to celebrate Dia de Muertos during Fiesta Latina 4th Friday on Sept. 27, 2024. This event will honor Hispanic Heritage Month and showcase the artistic talents of the local community in partnership with the Arts Council of Fayetteville-Cumberland County. Don’t miss this exciting blend of art, culture, and celebration.

For more information or to apply, please visit https://visitdowntownfayetteville.com/call-for-artist/ or email us at info@coolspringfay.org.