UPDATE: The Elyria Community Partnership has just launched an urgent call for artists to create a stunning mural on the Elyria City Hall, located at the heart of Ely Square. This initiative is a collaboration with the City of Elyria and local stakeholders, aiming to encapsulate the city’s vibrant history and shared vision for its future.
Officials emphasize the immediacy of this project, stating that the selected artist will play a crucial role in reflecting Elyria’s identity through public art. “Elyria is in motion, and this is an opportunity to capture that through public art,” said Monet Roberts-Walton, executive director of Elyria Community Partnership.
The mural will be strategically placed on a wall facing Ely Square and the nearby Huntington building, making it a prominent feature for residents and visitors alike. The project is designed to enhance community pride and cultural expression, aligning with the partnership’s broader mission to boost downtown vibrancy.
Artists from local, regional, and national backgrounds are encouraged to apply, but they must demonstrate experience in creating murals of similar scale. While specific themes are not mandatory, stakeholders have suggested areas of inspiration, including cultural heritage, nature, and bold abstract styles.
“This is a highly collaborative process,” Roberts-Walton added, highlighting the importance of community engagement. The chosen artist will work closely with city officials, City Council members, and a focus group that includes youth voices to refine their concepts.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: All submissions must be received by noon on February 10, 2024. Interested artists are required to submit all materials in a single PDF file no larger than 15MB to [email protected], with the subject line “Elyria City Hall Mural.”
This project is particularly timely, with the goal of completing the mural later this year, potentially coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. The community is excited about the prospect of seeing the mural come to life, with Roberts-Walton expressing confidence that it will reflect the beauty and significance of Elyria.
With public art identified as a priority in the 2023 vibrancy action plan, this mural represents a pivotal opportunity for artists to contribute to a project that will leave a lasting impact on the community.
For more information about the application process and project details, visit the Elyria Community Partnership’s website. This is your chance to be part of something extraordinary in Elyria – don’t miss out!