How to Write a Strong Letter of Interest for Open Calls

Applying to an Open Call is time-consuming — you’re gathering images, your résumé, references, and crafting a Letter of Interest (LOI). Too often, that letter gets short shrift in the rush to meet the deadline. But your LOI is critical: it’s your chance to make a memorable impression on the selection committee.

At CODAworx, we’ve reviewed hundreds of LOIs submitted through our CODAcommission Open Calls. Here are some key takeaways from experts in our community, along with excerpts from successful submissions.

Why the LOI Matters

Your LOI is a vital part of your Open Call application because it:

• Introduces you as both an artist and a person
• Explains your creative process and approach
• Connects you directly with the client — the most important goal

A great LOI shows personality, enthusiasm, and care for the project. Don’t just restate your résumé; personalize your message to this particular opportunity.

Start Strong

Open with impact. Mention the project by name in your first sentence to show you’ve read the Open Call carefully. Commissioners want to see genuine interest, not a recycled template. Lead with your most compelling points — don’t bury them at the end.

Example:

“The Rotary Centennial Project offers an exciting opportunity to create a highly visible and important public artwork rooted in its setting...”

And before you submit, always recheck the Open Call instructions — requirements can vary, even for the LOI.

Be Personable

Your LOI is your chance to connect.

• Tell a story that reveals your passion or connection to the site.
• Show your collaborative nature and originality — avoid generic language.
• Demonstrate integrity and authenticity.

Example:

“I am an athlete and artist fascinated by musculature, body language, movement, and gesture… I create art to teach, heal, and inspire.”

Prove You’re Qualified

Be confident, not boastful.  Let commissioners know that you are easy to work with and that you can work with a diverse group of people. Express how you have had experience with varying levels of administrative details and that you know how to successfully see a project from beginning to end.

• Highlight unique skills and experiences that make you the right fit.
• Reference relevant past projects and collaborators.
• Emphasize teamwork and professionalism — commissioners will check references.

Example:

“I feel uniquely qualified for this commission based on my twenty-three years of experience designing and constructing permanent site-specific public art…”

Demonstrate Passion

Express enthusiasm for both your practice and the project.

• Show familiarity with the site or community.
• Align your values with the client’s goals.

Example:

“This project particularly interests me due to the meaning of its location… My practice lies in seeking a dialogue between ourselves, our communities, and the natural world.”

Present Your Ideas

Show initiative by proposing a vision tailored to the project; demonstrate your vision with words.

• Reference past works that relate to your concept.
• Offer general creative ideas to demonstrate thoughtfulness.
  

Example:

“My thematic approach would develop visually from the idea of a water surface being swept cleanly through by the rapidly advancing hull of a scull-boat…”

Show You’re Prepared

Demonstrate that you’ve read and understood the Open Call.

• Reflect the client’s mission and values.
• Mention any relevant research or collaboration methods.

Example:

“Our approach is founded on cross-disciplinary collaboration, integrating cost efficiency, ease of construction, and sustainability…”

Make It Professional

Your LOI is your introduction — make it polished.

• Include your contact information on all pages.
• Address the letter to a specific person or committee.
• Check spelling and grammar carefully.
• Name your PDF clearly.
• Thank the commissioner for the opportunity.

In Conclusion

Your Letter of Interest tells your story and distinguishes you from other talented applicants. With a little extra care and personalization, your LOI can transform your application from strong to unforgettable.