Arcata 2025/2026 Call for Arts and Culture
City of Arcata seeks artists for third annual call with $10K in commissions. Theme: Seasons and Stories. Fire hydrant murals and open-ended submissions welcome.
The City of Arcata is pleased to announce its third annual Call for Arts and Culture, inviting individuals and collaborative teams to submit proposals for creative projects. This year's theme is "Seasons and Stories," encouraging artists to use their chosen medium to share compelling narratives with the community.
The city is specifically seeking proposals for two types of projects:
1. Fire hydrant murals within the Sunny Brae neighborhood
2. Open-ended submissions that could include live art, performance, or cultural happenings
With $10,000 dedicated to commissions, the city will fund individual projects at $800 each to support artists' time and materials. This funding structure ensures fair compensation for artists' creative work, aligning with Arcata's Strategic Arts Plan core values.
Key eligibility and selection criteria include prioritization of Humboldt County residents and emerging artists. Selected proposals will be implemented in Spring 2026. The 2025/2026 call has been collaboratively shaped by local arts and cultural leaders, City staff, and Playhouse Arts, Arcata's official arts agency.
The selection process will be guided by the Arts and Culture Panel and Arcata's Strategic Arts Plan, which emphasizes that arts are highly valued, artists are fairly compensated, and the arts and cultural life is equitable and accessible to all.
Beyond this funded call, the city also welcomes public art proposals on a rolling basis through the Art Around Arcata program, providing additional opportunities for artists throughout the year.