Midsummer Festival Commission Opportunities

Midsummer Festival Commission Opportunities

Milton Keynes City Council Closing date: Fri, 10 Apr 2026

Artform: Festival
Role: Creative
Contract: Temporary
UK-wide

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 "> published -

Job Summary

We are inviting proposals from artists, collectives, or creative practitioners for a newly commissioned artwork or participatory project to be presented as Milton Keynes Midsummer Festival in June 2026.

Job Description

Taking place on Sunday 21st June, 10am - 8pm, the third edition of the Midsummer Festival features a free, fun-packed family-friendly programme inspired by the summer solstice. Located on Midsummer Boulevard, which was built to famously align with the rising and setting sun, the festival transforms both the road and surrounding public realm into joyful, colour filled stage, hosting performances, creative workshops, concerts, art installations, a fantastic street food offer and more. To date, the 2024 and 2025 editions of the festival have attracted over 14,000 visitors and 2026 promises to be even bigger and better. www.midsummer-festival.co.uk Milton Keynes City Council invites proposals from artists, collectives, or creative practitioners for a newly commissioned artwork or participatory project to be presented as Milton Keynes Midsummer Festival in June 2026. We are seeking ambitious, engaging, and high-quality proposals that: Respond to the spirit of midsummer (light, renewal, connection, nature, celebration) Engage diverse communities across Milton Keynes Are suitable for presentation in an outdoor public setting Are accessible and inclusive Encourage participation, interaction, or shared experience The commission may take the form of (but is not limited to): Temporary public art installation Participatory performance or procession Light, sound, or digital artwork Interactive sculpture or immersive experience Community co-created work The total commission budget is up to £7,000 (inclusive of VAT if applicable). This must cover: Artist fees Materials and production costs Fabrication Technical requirements Transport Installation and de-installation Insurance Access costs Any engagement workshops or community activity For a full commission brief please head to www.midsummer-festival.co.uk

Job Requirements

The commissioned artist or creative company will be required to develop and deliver an original artwork specifically created for the Midsummer Festival. The work should respond to the themes of Midsummer, the local environment, and the communal nature of the event, while being suitable for presentation within a public festival setting. The artist will be expected to provide a clear proposal outlining their concept, materials, technical requirements, and installation approach. The final work must be completed within the agreed timeframe and budget, comply with relevant health and safety requirements, and be designed with consideration for durability, accessibility and audience engagement.

Job Responsibilities

An artist or creative company creating a new commission for a Midsummer festival holds the responsibility of developing work that thoughtfully engages with the spirit of the season, the festival's themes, and the community it serves. This involves researching the cultural and historical context of Midsummer, responding creatively to the specific site or setting, and producing an original piece that is both safe and accessible for a public audience. The artist is also responsible for managing their process professionally-meeting agreed deadlines, collaborating with festival organisers where required, and ensuring the final work is delivered, installed, and presented to a high standard that enhances the overall festival experience.

Useful Links

Job Overview

  • Job Title: Midsummer Festival Commission Opportunities
  • Salary: Under £10K
  • Hours: Part time
  • Artform: Festival
  • Role: Creative
  • Contract: Temporary
  • Closing date: Fri, 10 Apr 2026
  • Location: UK-wide

How to Apply

If you are interested in this opportunity please submit the following information:

An outline of your approach to this commission brief - max 1 side of A4.
Provide up to 3 examples of previous relevant commissions (pdf or jpg file types only) with information about each project – max 5 sides of A4. Please include indicative budget spend for each example and images.
An indicative budget breakdown and timeline of activity
Current Curriculum Vitae or practice profile
Letter confirming your availability and contact details for 2 referees (email and telephone) – note: preferably from recent commissioners
Evidence of insurance cover at required levels
Please do not exceed 6MB in file size.
Deadline: 31st March at 5pm - please email your application to [email protected]

If you have require any further information or have any questions – please email [email protected]