The Mural People are looking for muralists for two major public art festivals in Downriver Michigan in 2026:

Paint The Park – Downtown Allen Park
Trenton Art Festival – Downtown Trenton

These events are immersive, city-wide art experiences featuring large-scale murals, live painting, interactive installations, and thousands of visitors.

We are seeking a select group of mural artists working across a range of styles and disciplines. This is a curated, juried program focused on high-quality, original public artwork.

Artists may apply for one or both festivals through a single application.

PAINT THE PARK – ALLEN PARK

Dates: August 16–23, 2026
Location: Downtown Allen Park, MI

Paint The Park is a multi-day mural festival transforming downtown Allen Park into a walkable outdoor gallery. The 2026 program will feature multiple large-scale murals, artist activations, a city-wide art fair, and immersive nighttime light experiences.

Selected artists will be invited to create a large-scale mural on a highly visible wall within the downtown district.

What We Provide:

• Artist fee ($5,000-$8,000 varies by project scale)
• Travel support
• Hotel accommodations
• Lift or scaffolding access
• Paint and materials
• On-site support and coordination
• Promotion across The Mural People and city channels

This is a juried opportunity. Selected artists will be chosen based on originality, experience, and fit within the overall curatorial vision.

TRENTON ART FESTIVAL – MURAL PROGRAM

Dates: September 14–19, 2026
Location: Downtown Trenton, MI

The Trenton Art Festival mural program is a growing public art initiative focused on activating downtown through permanent, large-scale artwork.

Selected artists will create murals on key buildings throughout the district as part of a broader arts and community event.

What We Provide:

• Artist fee (varies by project)
• Materials and paint
• Equipment access (lift/scaffolding)
• Local promotion and media coverage
• On-site coordination

This is a curated opportunity with a focus on strong visual impact, community relevance, and long-term placemaking.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Artists will be selected based on:

• Strength of portfolio
• Experience with large-scale work
• Originality and artistic voice
• Ability to execute within timeline
• Fit within the overall festival vision

IMPORTANT NOTES

• Artists must be comfortable working at scale
• Murals will be subject to final approval by The Mural People and project stakeholders
• Selected artists will enter into a separate agreement outlining project scope and support
• Travel support is available for select artists only

Apply Now

Join us in transforming Downriver into a destination for public art.