9th and 9th Whale Mural Design Commission

Salt Lake City is launching an application process for a Salt Lake County-based artist to create a new mural design for "Out of the Blue," the beloved 23-foot whale sculpture located at the 9th and 9th District intersection. This is the first design update since the sculpture was installed in 2022. The city is seeking a dynamic, community-centered mural that celebrates the neighborhood's creativity and character. Based on community survey feedback from over 1,700 residents, the new design should embody the words most frequently mentioned: "fun," "community," "iconic," "unique," and "colorful." Artists must be based in Salt Lake County and submit portfolio examples by January 2, 2026. The selection process involves multiple stages: the city will first review portfolios and select 3-5 finalists who will develop their own design concepts. These designs will be presented to an art design board in May 2026, with the winner announced in August 2026. The winning artist's design will be painted onto the whale by late summer 2026. The city has allocated $12,500 for this project from public art funds (1.5% of city project budgets). This is a significant opportunity for local artists, as the whale has become one of Salt Lake City's most famous and beloved public artworks, generating merchandise, media attention, and driving foot traffic to local businesses.