Florida artists can apply for paid mural projects in Clearwater worth $5,000 to $30,000, with no entry fee and a scoring bonus for locals.

The city's Public Art & Design Program posted the open call on its website, seeking professional artists or artist teams for ongoing mural work. Any professional artist living in Florida is eligible. For the 2026 mural festival, the program awards extra points to hyperlocal applicants.

Selected artists will receive a comprehensive contract covering design, fabrication, materials, installation, insurance, travel and an identification plaque. Artists shortlisted in the first round also receive a paid stipend to develop their design proposals.

Stipend amounts vary by project.

The program uses a blind juror panel in the first round, scoring artists solely on their previous body of work. A selection panel that includes Public Art & Design Board representatives, Clearwater Arts Alliance board members, the city's Arts and Cultural Affairs manager, local art professionals and community representatives then reviews proposals before making a final pick.

Applicants must submit their materials in a single PDF or Microsoft Word document. Applying also adds artists to the program's database for consideration on future projects over the next year, according to the city.

The mural call is separate from Clearwater's Public Art Grant Program, which is also accepting applications. That program offers grants of up to $10,000 per fiscal year to Clearwater residents and business owners, with selections made in July and December. Artists with questions about either program can call the city's Arts and Cultural Affairs Division at (727) 444-7569.

Upcoming arts events in Clearwater:

  • Chalk the Bay Art & Music Festival: Jan. 15–17, 2027, at Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland St. The inaugural three-day waterfront festival features chalk art, live music and an artist dinner block party on the 400 block of Cleveland Street on Jan. 16. Student artists ages 13–20 and emerging artists of all ages can participate at no cost, with materials provided by the city.