Garden Monster Application 2026
An enchanting opportunity awaits this fall at Newfields. The Garden will once again transform with eerie and imaginative Garden Monsters, supported by Corteva, and created by local artists using natural materials that celebrate the beauty of the season. Newfields invites Indianapolis artists, organizations, and community groups to design and build large-scale Garden Monsters for display during Harvest Nights presented by Everwise Credit Union, open September 26–November 1, 2026.
This year’s theme is The Gothic Garden. Designs should feel immersive, elegant, and subtly spooky, capturing the mystery and magic of autumn. We encourage artists to draw inspiration from classic Gothic design elements such as dramatic arches, wrought iron details, climbing vines, moonlit florals, weathered stone textures, and more.
Selected artists will receive an honorarium and the opportunity to share their creations with guests during General Admission hours and Harvest Nights festivities throughout the season.
Key Dates:
Applications Open: Tuesday, July 7 at 10 AM–Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST
Acceptance Notifications Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Mandatory Onsite Orientation & Site Visit: Thursday, August 6, 2026, 6–8 PM
Final Rendering & Supply List Due: Monday, August 17, 2026
Installation Date: Monday, September 21 (rain date Tuesday, September 22, 2026)
Maintenance Commitment: Artists or an artist representative must be available throughout the month to make repairs in the event of damage.
