The first step on a big art project is always- and you've probably already done this- dreaming the dream. When we say dream big- we think it's useful to let your imagination run wild! At this stage, don't worry too much about logistics. And while dreaming, some useful exercises can be to reflect on the following two questions:

1. What is the purpose of this project? 2. What is the overall aesthetic feeling of this project?

Good art is a big dream from the heart, with a clear purpose and united aesthetic feeling.

Once you have your big dream, it's time to bring it down to this planetary body. The first step in that process is really honing in on the idea. Your first idea is definitely awesome, but there may be a better version of it out there. Can you sketch out 6 different versions of your idea? Take a look at them all, and assess whether your original idea is still the best. What about using various different materials? Does moving from wood to metal better reflect your purpose or aesthetic? Try out a lot of different versions, then you can be 100% confident you're going with the best version possible of your project.

Next step is to start making some models. These can- and should- be both digital models drawn in CAD programs (try SketchUp for free) and prototypes. While you're making these models, you'll start to discover the practicalities of building this thing. You may have to make modifications to your design. You will have to revisit these CAD drawings and prototypes, start with a few early models at this point as a proof of concept.

Get feedback from as many different types of people as possible, but most importantly, your build crew. Ask them what they think, and really listen when they tell you. Don't take offense. Really consider their ideas. They may have some awesome ones, and you can make your project twice as cool with them. They may have little tweaks that would facilitate your build. At the very least, you'll get to drink some beer with your buddies.

At this point, take stock of your feedback and all previous stages in order to make your first drawings and models of the project that you will use both to determine your first budget, your timelines, and your outreach.

Next up, it's time to make a budget. It may help to find a template with formulas, or if you are comfortable with spreadsheets you can make one yourself. Be sure to include categories with subtotals (e.g. "structural materials," "decor," "fundraising expenses"). We like to use Google Sheets so that we can easily share the spreadsheet with the team, and make edits in real time. Link a Google Drive folder to your Sheet so that you can easily upload receipts as they come in. For your first budget, do your best to get exact quantities and prices (search online) and to think of every possible detail you can imagine. You will have to revise, but the more detailed you are at this stage, the better, because those pennies sure do add up.

This is a big one that's often overlooked. Start with the date that you project needs to be completed. Now, write down all the tasks that you need to complete, in order of operations. Now, write down all of the months you have between now and your deadline. As realistically as you can (this can be extremely challenging), parse out the tasks into the months. Now, get out a calendar for each month, and parse out the tasks week by week. This is not a calendar to be left alone. Check in at the end of each work session- write down the tasks that you did complete, how long it took to complete them, and make any adjustments to your schedule as necessary. This process will ground your deadline into reality and keep you on track- we can't overemphasize how important it is!

There's a few sources available to funding art installations: self-funding, crowdfunding, and grants. Self-funding is pretty self-explanitory, but be careful that you plan such that the self-funding you are contributing is voluntary and not a matter of last resort. Crowdfunding for art installations is a great way to get your project off the ground, and there's a number of platforms to choose from: Kickstarter, gofundme, indegogo, etc. Some require rewards, others don't. Do a good job setting up your campaign and marketing, and you're likely to reach your goal. Grant making is another option. Start with a search of local organizations that fund the arts, check their websites to see if you might be eligible, and apply! Many require a simple letter or short application only. Develop a clear strategy using a mix of sources, with realistic goals and clear objectives to attaining them.

Who are going to be your people? This is one of the most fun parts of building a big art project! We have found that sending out an open call to any and all contacts has brought us some amazing volunteers with such a diversity of backgrounds. The task as a project manager is to identify a strong core group to rely on for the bulk of the work, and to align volunteers with tasks that match their personal strengths.

A plan is not something to make at the beginning of a project, and then forget about once you get started. Keep your plan alive. Regularly (and we recommend scheduling this e.g. once a week, once a month, after each work session) check in with your vision, your budget, timeline, your fundraising progress, your volunteers.