The canvas is big and central, so choose wisely.

Three artists have been short-listed — a jury of "citizens, stakeholders and artists" chose them — to contribute artwork to the city's two new "beacons" at the edges of Gore Park.

Now it's time for the public to weigh in, before March 26. The winning artist will receive up to $4,000 for the use of their work.

The finalists

The three artists and their proposals are:

Paul Elia: A juxtaposition of industry and development. "Digitally illustrated images (that) depict daily life in Hamilton's post-industrial streetscapes." (Full proposal)

Dave Kuruc: Music city markers. "lyrics from 12 musicians and bands who are Hamilton-based (or who once called it home) into a series of word-based pieces." (Full proposal)

Jihee Min: Hand gestures. "Four site-specific images that talk about hope and solidarity through the use of hand gestures as universal language." (Full proposal)

The artwork will be installed on two 9-metre steel and glass structures at the east and west ends of the park.

The project gives a chance to be part of a city public art project to artists who do not usually make three-dimensional sculptures or artwork, which are more commonly commissioned for public art.

Criteria to consider

Artists were asked to address the vision statement for the park settled on in 2010, and one or more of these themes:

Vision statement: "The Gore is an urban oasis at the City's crossroads. People gather to share their heritage, participate in leisure and entertainment, and enjoy diverse shopping and dining. It is a cultural gem and a safe, inviting and accessible public destination where people meet before moving on, or stay to interact. "Meet me at the Gore" can be heard throughout the City as people make their daily plans."

Themes:

History and Heritage: Recognize and reflect the rich and unique history of the area

Inclusiveness and Community: The work should express a sense of community, be accessible to people of all ages, recognize the pedestrian focus of the area and encourage gathering.

Have your say

You can weigh in on the proposal you like best, and why, on the city's website until March 26. Comments will be collected and provided to the jury to be considered as part of the selection. Or you can stop in in person at the Tourism Hamilton Information Centre at the Lister Block, until March 24.