Artists Sought for the New Downtown Arlington Mural Project

The Downtown Arlington Management Corporation seeks Texas-based artists – both individual artists and teams – to help launch the Downtown Arlington Mural Project.

Fostering a nurturing environment for established and emerging artists is one of the primary objectives of the new Downtown Arlington Mural Project, which supports the creation of a series of murals throughout the City of Arlington’s urban center. Aldo Fritz, President and CEO of DAMC, says the program is founded in the “CIMA” model: Cultivate, Innovate, Motivate, and Appreciate.

[caption id="attachment_21231" align="img-wrapleft" width="432"] As the nation’s largest public art program, Mural Arts Philadelphia provides an inspirational model for Downtown Arlington's new mural initiative. [/caption]

“We’re very excited about partnering with the artist community in this way,” said Fritz. “As a part of our responsibility as the Arlington Cultural District, it’s important for Downtown to be a canvas for the incredible talent found throughout our state.”

As a showcase for public art, Downtown Arlington provides a robust backdrop. As both the city’s historic center and creative engine, Downtown is home to an impressive concentration of fine and performing arts institutions; a growing number of restaurants, retail and residential developments; a blossoming coworking scene; and The University of Texas at Arlington.

“The Downtown Arlington Mural Project will help us visually connect the dots throughout the district,” said Fritz. “Through this comprehensive approach, we can directly and positively impact the reputation, status and placemaking of the Arlington Cultural District as a hub for creative activity and local engagement as well as a compelling tourist destination.”

Process overview

A committee of community members and experts will provide oversight of the artist selection process. Artist finalists will also be asked to present their concept at a community meeting held in the Summer.

The murals will be dedicated in Fall 2018 at an art-centric, high-profile event designed to attract people from around the region.

How to Apply

Artists are encouraged to submit design concepts that:

• Bring energy and color to Downtown Arlington, aka the Arlington Cultural District
• Are inclusive towards the entire Arlington community
• Attract visitors and tourists to the area
• Beautify Downtown and enhance its sense of place
• Are appropriate for public display and viewing by all ages

For more information and to apply, applicants should visit the Call for Artists on the CaFÉ™ website.

Dates to keep in mind include:

• Deadline for submissions: March 31, 2018
• Selected finalists to be notified: April 13, 2018
• Finalists present design concepts: May 12, 2018

With thanks

Visit the Downtown Arlington website to learn about the partnership between the Arlington Cultural Tourism Council and DAMC in support of the Downtown Arlington Mural Project.

About Downtown Arlington

Designated by the State of Texas as the Arlington Cultural District, Downtown Arlington blends a unique mix of activities, sights, tastes and sounds that attract visitors and locals alike. Within its less than a two-mile radius, Downtown is home to a top tier public research university, prolific fine and performing artists and arts institutions, live entertainment, exciting NCAA and professional athletics, one-of-a-kind dining and retail, and a supportive business climate. More at downtownarlington.org