In support of the City of Tacoma’s ongoing efforts to combat blight and vandalism, the Tacoma Murals Project would like to hear from community groups interested in collaborating with local artists who will design and implement murals that reflect positive neighborhood themes or messages. The deadline for submissions is May 28.

“These community-based murals have proven to be positive community catalysts, bringing neighbors together, helping them find common voices, and enlivening areas that were previously neglected,” said Tacoma Arts Administrator Amy McBride. “It is inspiring to see how artists have been able to work within each community to develop murals that are unique and responsive to the characteristics, stories, history and future of each neighborhood.”

Each selected community group will receive a funded mural that includes artist supplies and artist compensation, an artist/artist team from a roster provided by the City, technical assistance and general promotion of the project.

In return, each selected community group would be responsible for contributing in-kind services and materials as required to prepare their mural wall, participating in the selection of an artist/artist team from a City-provided roster, coordinating community meetings and the dedication of their completed mural, and maintaining their mural after completion.

Community groups must, with property owner permission, propose specific mural walls. Proposed mural walls must be on commercial or public property and located within Tacoma city limits. Priority will be given to sites located within Community Based Services areas in Tacoma or sites located in areas without a good representation of public art.

Full project details, and the application, are available online here. For additional information, please contact Naomi Strom-Avila at nstrom-avila@cityoftacoma.org or (253) 591-5191.