Decatur Public Library seeking applications for a new mural inside the library
The Decatur Area Arts Council, in partnership with the Decatur Public Library, invites local artists to submit concept drawings for a new community mural celebrating the library's history and its place as a welcoming gathering place in Decatur. This project is funded through a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and is intended to reflect the creativity, diversity, and shared story of our community.
We are seeking a hand-painted mural design that honors the history and evolution of the Decatur Public Library, celebrates the diversity of our patrons and community, and brings energy and color to the space. Artists are encouraged to create a design that is colorful, engaging, and inspired by the library's logo colors, with room for imaginative approaches such as collage-style composition or trompe l'oeil painted bookshelves, as long as the final concept remains cohesive and visually inviting.
Submission details
- Deadline: May 1, 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.
- Format: Submit one concept drawing in any medium, including digital.
- Submission method: Email your artwork as a single file attachment to jami@decaturarts.org.
- Please include: Your name, mailing address, and phone number in the body of the email.
- Optional: You may also include up to 50 words about how your design celebrates the library's history.
Project details
- The selected artist will create the final mural by hand on site. The mural will be on an inside wall that is 117.5" wide and 131" high.
- Paint and supplies will be provided.
- The artist may work with library staff on special requests or adjustments as the project moves forward.
- Work will begin on approximately June 1, 2026, and should be completed professionally and on the library's schedule, ideally by the end of June, in keeping with grant timelines.
- The selected artist will be required to sign a contract and attend the mural's opening reception.
