GLOUCESTER, MA – The City of Gloucester’s Community Development Department, in partnership with the 2025–2026 Making it Public Program and with support from the New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA) and the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), is now accepting applications from artists and artist teams for a new public art initiative on Main Street. This program invites artists to create original, hand-painted temporary window murals that will be displayed during the second half of 2026. Selected artists will be paired with local businesses to transform storefront windows into vibrant works of art that celebrate Gloucester’s identity and future.
The theme, “Imagining Gloucester’s Future,” encourages artists to explore creative visions of the city through lenses such as community, art, fishing, tourism, and coastal geography. The initiative aims to activate Main Street with engaging, place-based artwork that reflects Gloucester’s culture and inspires residents and visitors alike. Any businesses on Main Street in Gloucester that are interested in hosting a mural on their windows should reach out to Miranda Aisling Hynes, contact details listed below.
Up to eight artists or artist teams will be selected to participate. Each will receive a $1,500 honorarium to cover all project-related expenses, including materials, travel, insurance, and installation. Murals will be installed on windows typically measuring up to 6 by 10 feet, though artists are not required to fill the entire space. Applications are open to US-based artists aged 18 and older. While all eligible artists are encouraged to apply, preference will be given to those with connections to Gloucester or similar working waterfront and arts communities. Emerging and diverse artists are strongly encouraged to participate.
Selections will be made by the City’s Committee for the Arts, a volunteer body established to promote and celebrate Gloucester’s cultural heritage. Applications will be evaluated based on artistic vision, community impact, and relevant experience, particularly in large-scale or site-specific work.
Applications must be submitted by June 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET via the online form: https://forms.gle/ViQZsBnqhFCJKvvq8
Printed applications are also available and may be submitted to:
Gloucester City Hall Annex
3 Pond Road, Gloucester, MA 01930
Applicants must provide contact information, a portfolio, a brief mural proposal, relevant experience, a resume or bio, and work samples. Optional letters of support may also be included.
The timeline for applicants is below:
Info Sessions:
– Thursday, May 26, 2026 from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. In-person Info Session at the Harbormasters Conference Room. Please RSVP here.
– Tuesday, June 2, 2026 from 12:00 – 1:00 pm. Virtual Info Session on Google Meet. Please RSVP here.
Application Due: June 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM
Selection Announced: July 2026
Grant Agreement Finalized: July 2026
Mural Completed By: September 3, 2026
For questions or additional information, please contact Miranda Aisling Hynes, Arts, Culture and Events Coordinator, at mhynes@gloucester-ma.gov or 978-325-5237. You can see the online call here: www.harbortownculturaldistrict.org/for-artists
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Mayor Paul Lundberg
City of Gloucester
Good Morning Gloucester 