CRA Feature: Art Infusion Program Call to Artists

DEADLINE: August 30, 2025

The Lakeland CRA is seeking qualified mural artists and muralist teams to be included on a Continuing Contract List for upcoming mural opportunities on multiple buildings throughout its three redevelopment districts: Dixieland, Downtown, and Midtown. Selected artists will be eligible to work on CRA-funded mural projects as part of our Art Infusion Program, which aims to activate underutilized spaces, celebrate local culture, and enhance the visual identity of our community.

Who Should Apply:

• Professional mural artists or artist teams with experience designing and installing large-scale exterior murals.
• Artists with a demonstrated ability to engage community stakeholders and work collaboratively with building owners and the CRA.
• Artists interested in contributing to the revitalization and beautification of commercial and mixed-use corridors.

Program Details:

• Selected artists will be added to the CRA's pre-qualified muralist roster for a term of 3 years.
• Building owners participating in the CRA Art Infusion Programs will select artists from this list for mural commissions.
• Project budgets will vary by site and scale, with funding provided by the CRA and building owners.
• Artists will contract directly with the CRA or building owners per project, under the Art Award Agreement guidelines.
• $500 artist fee for conceptual designs, $10 per square feet for mural installation, $5 per square foot for supplies, wall prep and sealing ($25,000 max per mural)

Selection Criteria:

• Artistic excellence and originality.
• Demonstrated mural experience and technical skill.
• Strong portfolio of previous mural works (minimum of 5 completed exterior murals preferred)
• Examples of other completed public art installations are encouraged.
• Capacity to complete projects on time and within budget.
• Ability to address site-specific opportunities and community context.
• Preference will be given to Lakeland, Polk County, Forida-based artists; however, all Florida-based artists are encouraged to apply!

How To Apply: Submit the following materials by [deadline]:

• Letter of Interest (1 page max).
• Artists Resume or Team Bios.
• Portfolio of at least 5 completed mural projects (images with locations, total costs, dimensions, and dates). Artists are encouraged to load more than the minimum, and provide examples of other public art examples if available such as sculptures, monuments, multimedia installations with locations, total costs, dimensions, dates and any collaborations with multiple artists/teams.
• Three references for recent mural projects.