Frequently asked questions

Got questions? We've got answers! Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page is designed to provide you with quick and comprehensive answers to the most common queries we receive. If you have a question not listed in the FAQ below, reach out to us at

institute@muralarts.org

WHAT IS THE MURAL ARTS INSTITUTE & WHAT DO YOU DO?

At its core, MAI is dedicated to socially-engaged art, rooted in “social practice” — the creative processes developed by artists and arts organizations to address social, economic, and environmental challenges. Our practice  is centered on connection: building networks, developing partnerships, and convening artists, communities, and partners to collaborate around participatory art. Additionally, MAI seeks to share skills related to the practices instrumental in our approach to creating works of public art with Philadelphians with others. We work with artists, arts administrators, and community leaders worldwide to align knowledge, amplify voices, empower change, and distribute resources.
Not necessarily. While we are headquartered in Philadelphia and hold a number of programs, classes and symposia here, we also offer remote coaching and consulting, and can design specific learning experiences for folks visiting from out of town to participate in here, or for us to deliver in your city. In the past we have run initiatives that regrant funds to help organizations in other select cities build their public art capacity. Visit our Initiatives page to learn more.

We have developed a very strong network of artists, organizations, community members, donors, government officials and more and we are happy to make suggestions for connections and offer advice to the entities and individuals with which we work. We do not connect entities directly with sponsorship dollars, however we can help steer entities to potential donors when appropriate.

Artist Opportunities & Resources

Yes! All artists are eligible to apply and selection will be based on specific requirements by the issuer of the project or opportunity
These are job postings, RFQs, RFPs, and other opportunities for artists or muralists to pursue their creative career as a muralist and/or community-based public artist. Each opportunity includes a summary, deadlines, and links to additional information if available.
They are labeled to differentiate between the opportunities requesting a portfolio of previous work (Request For Qualifications) and the opportunities that ask for a fleshed out project proposal for consideration (Request For Proposals).
Any artist who can fulfill the submission requirements (documents, examples of past murals or artwork, artist statements, etc.) is able to apply. Some opportunities may ask for specific skills, qualifications, or availability. Not all opportunities are the same. Make sure to review these.
Some opportunities posted are those provided by Mural Arts Philadelphia, and are reviewed by Mural Arts Staff. Some opportunities are provided by outside organizations, businesses, or individuals. Annual opportunities to apply for Mural Arts programs exist: the Summer Internship and the Black Artist Fellowship

Mural Arts is committed to be a partner to all institutions in the philadelphia arts ecosystem, for that reason, we are limiting opportunities posted on our website to those directed towards muralists/community engaged practitioners, other opportunities, like artist calls, residencies, etc. are posted by other Philadelphia artist resource websites.

Here is a list of what we share:

    • Calls for muralists/community engagement practices (RFQ/RFP)
    • Job opportunities for muralists/community engagement practices
    • Private requests looking for muralists/community engagement practices

If your opportunity fits the aforementioned and you are looking for artists to be part of your project or call, you are absolutely welcome to fill out this form.

On the other hand, if you are looking to pitch an idea to Mural Arts or are looking to partner with MAP on a project, please visit Mural Arts “mural application” page through this link.

ARTIST DIRECTORY

The Artist Directory includes artists who either worked, trained, or partnered with Mural Arts Philadelphia, in addition to artists outside of Mural Arts Philadelphia who are also practicing public artmaking in the Philadelphia region. The online directory is open for all creative individuals deeply involved with community-engaged public artmaking. This is not limited to visual practices (ie: muralism), but also includes art educators, community organizers, and more.
Mural Arts constantly receives information about artist opportunities outside of Mural Arts Philadelphia. This artist directory serves as a tool to help connect public art planners directly with artists for opportunities.

Mural Arts aims to be inclusive in this artist directory. Any artists with current or former experience working with Mural Arts Philadelphia are invited to apply. All other artists are also welcome to submit an application.

Application review will be held on a quarterly basis throughout the year. Mural Arts holds a panel composed by 3-5 representatives from the Mural Arts’ Learning and Practice department that includes staff from the Mural Arts Institute, Artist Relations, and Mural Arts’ Resident Artists. Mural Arts also invites overview of artist directory selection by representatives of the DEIB committee.
All applicants need to submit a completed application with the following:
  • Basic information including:
    • Name/Name of the practice
    • City, state and/or country
    • Profile picture representing the artist/practitioner
    • An image of the work can serve as a substitute
    • Bio/statement of the artist/their work
    • Website/dedicated social media present
    • 3 images representative of their practice
      • For time based media, such as video, you can submit a still image with a link to access free online platforms hosting the media (ie: Youtube, Vimeo).

TRAININGS REGISTRATION QUESTIONS

Head to our Training page for an in depth look on how to apply for upcoming training sessions offered.
All offered training opportunities are available to everyone 18+.
Please send a detailed email with all of your information to institute@muralarts.org

CONSULTING

We provide both in-person and virtual consultation services. Visit the Consulting page for detailed information on how to book with us.
The Mural Arts Institute is supported by a skilled and diverse team of consultants who are here to assist you. Visit our About page to meet the full team.
Yes, please contact institute@muralarts.org.