Go North KC is now accepting applications for a Call for Artists to design original artwork for a 20-foot diameter inflatable soccer ball that will be featured at community events and public gatherings in the region.

Bold in scale and designed to be experienced from every angle, the inflatable soccer ball will serve as a highly visible, photo-friendly centerpiece—inviting residents and visitors to engage with art in a fun, accessible format inspired by the global spirit of the game.

This project is an opportunity to spotlight creative talent and bring something truly eye-catching to our community events. We’re excited to see artists’ styles and ideas come to life on a unique three-dimensional canvas.

The selected artist will create a full-surface design for the inflatable soccer ball. Like a traditional soccer ball, the piece is constructed from stitched pentagonal and hexagonal panels, allowing the classic soccer aesthetic to remain visible while still offering artists an expansive spherical surface to design. Artists may choose to reference the panel structure—or design as if the ball were a continuous, uninterrupted surface.

This Call for Artists will be conducted in two phases:

Phase One (Initial Application): Artists submit references of existing work and a brief statement of interest. No original concept is required at this stage.
Phase Two (Finalist Concepts): Five (5) finalists will be invited to create and submit design concepts for the inflatable soccer ball. Each finalist will receive a $100 honorarium.

From the finalists, one artist will be selected and awarded a $2,000 contract to complete the final artwork for production.

Artists will be asked to submit:
3–5 examples of existing work
A brief statement of interest

A current résumé or artist bio

Full details, submission instructions, and the application link are available at:

https://gonorthkc.com/callforartists. Submissions are due: January 4th, 2026 at 11:59 pm.

KPGZ News – Megan Sahlfeld contributed to this story.

Clay and Platte Counties are joining forces to boost tourism in the Northland through a new partnership under the Go North KC brand. The Clay County Commission’s recent approval of a contract with Platte County marks a significant step toward presenting the region as a single, vibrant destination. Officials from both counties emphasize that the initiative is designed to highlight the Northland’s unique blend of history, culture, recreation, and hospitality.

Megan Sahlfeld, Clay County Marketing and Tourism Manager, said the new brand represents more than just a marketing effort—it’s about building a movement. “By working together, we can shine a brighter spotlight on all that the Northland has to offer, from our festivals and parks to our local businesses and hidden gems,” Sahlfeld noted.

Jennifer Goering, Director of the Platte County Convention & Visitors Bureau, echoed this sentiment, adding that the Northland is stronger through collaboration. She said the partnership aims to foster growth, welcome new visitors, and celebrate the distinct character of the area.

The agreement is supported by grants from the Missouri Division of Tourism as well as local municipalities, chambers of commerce, and community stakeholders. Plans include launching a regional tourism website, enhancing digital resources, and coordinating joint promotional campaigns to connect residents and visitors with attractions throughout the area.

This collaboration arrives as Northland communities prepare for major opportunities, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is expected to bring global attention to the region. The Go North KC brand encapsulates the welcoming spirit and growing ambition of the Northland, positioning it as a must-visit Midwest destination with a unified message and revitalized sense of identity.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.