Art Seen Festival 2026 Muralist Call
Art Seen Festival seeks regional muralists to design and lead a community mural project in Sanford, Michigan with $7,500 stipend.
The Art Seen Festival Committee, an initiative of Public Arts Midland and the Midland Area Community Foundation, is opening its 2026 Call to Artists for a large-scale public art installation coming to Sanford for the first time. This is an exciting opportunity for muralists from Michigan's Great Lakes Bay Region to showcase their work and lead a community-driven creative project.
The selected artist will design and lead a community "paint by number" mural at Harry's Sewer and Drain Cleaning, located at 351 W. Saginaw Road in downtown Sanford. The signature format of Art Seen Festival allows residents to participate in painting the finished work, creating a hands-on, collaborative experience that brings the community together through public art.
The main community mural event is scheduled for June 13, 2026, with additional prep and potential final painting days on June 12, 14, and 15. The project will pair vibrant mural-making with live music and community involvement, creating a celebration of public art and regional creativity.
The selected artist will receive a $7,500 stipend with all materials provided by the festival. This is a paid opportunity that recognizes the artist's vision, leadership, and contribution to the community. The project aims to add beauty, energy, and connection to the Village of Sanford while uplifting diverse artistic perspectives from the Great Lakes Bay Region.