Calling All Illumination Creatives!
Bernheim’s Arts in Nature team is seeking unique art experiences that will activate the heavily trafficked, 1.3-mile Lake Nevin Loop during Bernheim’s CONNECT event on Saturday, August 15, 2026, from 6:36 pm to 11:36 pm EDT.
Discover the enchanting fusion of live music, art, science, and nature at CONNECT—Bernheim’s annual, eclectic evening event. Experience Lake Nevin as it comes alive with spontaneous art, light sculptures, and musical performances by renowned artists. Enjoy hands-on art and science activities that invite participation and spark curiosity.
We are especially interested in proposals featuring performance art, dance, sound art, LED-based installations, and interactive demonstrations or drop-in workshops. We also welcome sculptural works installed along the event path or floating on Lake Nevin.
Bernheim values creative experiences that support our mission of connecting people with nature while celebrating the beauty and wonder of the natural world. Proposals that emphasize sustainability, waste reduction, or the use of repurposed materials are strongly encouraged. We also prioritize work that explores themes such as clean air, clean water, biodiversity, climate change, and cultural or community connections.
CONNECT is a vibrant summer celebration where thousands gather to enjoy art, music, and science, both before and after sunset. Lake Nevin becomes a dynamic, illuminated stage for creativity. To learn more and submit your proposal, please download the Call for Submissions PDF.
April 13 – June 26: Artists are strongly encouraged (but not required) to visit Lake Nevin for a site tour and to meet with the Arts in Nature team. This is a great opportunity to discuss ideas and explore potential installation locations. To schedule a visit during this time, please contact Arts Program Coordinator, Teresa Koester.
While we welcome artists’ preferences for site placement, final decisions on installation locations will be made by the Bernheim team.
