How The Full Circle Design Competition finalists were chosen
As noted in our FAQs, the overarching goal of The Full Circle Design Competition “is to create [at the project site] a new civic space that acknowledges the many cultures that make up this community” and that “is welcoming to all.”
With this in mind, the selection process began with an invitational call to over three dozen qualified artists/design teams from the local community and across North America. With facilitation by OHA’s public art consultant, Forecast Public Art, a Curatorial Committee ― comprised of local and national professionals experienced in urban planning, landscape design and architecture, public art, and historic preservation, as well as local stakeholders ― diligently reviewed submissions from 17 teams that submitted their qualifications to participate in the competition. The three finalists had the highest cumulative scores based on the following criteria:
Specifically, the Curatorial Committee convened in Syracuse in June to conduct its review of design team submissions, assessing and scoring each submission.
Does the submission demonstrate a thoughtful understanding of the site, project goals, and the complexity of multiple histories, perspectives, and community narratives connected to the project?
Does the applicant/team demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders and communities, navigate differing perspectives, and incorporate public input into the design process?
Does the submission demonstrate strong design capability and relevant experience with public space, civic, cultural, landscape, architectural, or socially engaged projects of similar scale or complexity?
Does the applicant/team demonstrate the organizational, technical, and collaborative capacity necessary to participate successfully in the public process and future implementation phases?
Does the submission reflect values of inclusivity, accessibility, cultural responsiveness, public engagement, and long-term civic relevance?
From this thoughtful, objective, and equitable process three finalists emerged and were invited to proceed to develop and submit concepts specific to The Full Circle Design Competition project site. Elements that finalists may include are:
- visual, textual, or audio elements meant to evoke memory and resilience
- interactive sound and light features
- elements that highlight local indigenous plant life
- reflections on water, land and migration
- among others
On November 10th, the three finalists’ concepts will be presented at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, exhibited at OHA, and represented on this website. Thereafter, the winning design concept will be selected and announced by the Curatorial Committee in December 2026 ― and the winning concept (including related schematics, specifications, and other technical information) will be conveyed to the City of Syracuse for administrative approvals and execution as its resources and timing dictate.