Call to Artists: Exterior Community Mural – Bridge Shelter Commons Building

The City of Vancouver invites artists or artist teams to submit proposals for a mural at the new congregate shelter located at 5313 N.E. 94th Ave. This project aims to create a welcoming, dignified, and uplifting environment for shelter residents, staff, and the surrounding community.

Project Location

The mural will be installed on the exterior north elevation of the Commons Building, near the entrance, parking lot, and 94th street. The mural area is expected to be 16’ – 3 ½ wide. The area for the mural is approximately 245 s.f.: 16’ wide and 17’ above ground at the highest point.

North elevation of Commons Building shows mural area on the right side when facing the building.
Mural area shown is 245.22 square feet and on the right side front when facing the building. The height is 17 feet, 3/4 inches with a gentle slope down to 13 feet. The width is 16 feet, 2 and 1/2 inches.

Project Goals

This mural should:

  • Promote a sense of belonging, dignity, and hope
  • Reflect themes of community, resilience, and support
  • Contribute positively to the neighborhood environment
  • Be mindful and respectful of the lived experiences of shelter residents

Trauma-Informed Design Guidelines

Artists should consider the following principles when developing their proposals:

  • Welcoming and calming imagery (avoid chaotic or overly intense visuals)
  • Positive, inclusive representation of people and community
  • Avoid imagery that could be interpreted as threatening, isolating, or stigmatizing
  • Consider themes like growth, stability, connection, nature, and renewal
  • Use color palettes that are harmonious and not overly harsh or aggressive
  • Be mindful that viewers may have experienced trauma; artwork should feel safe, grounding, and respectful

Scope of Work

The selected artist or artist team will be responsible for the design, fabrication, and installation of an outdoor mural. The scope includes, but is not limited to, the following:

  • Developing a site-responsive mural concept that reflects the goals, themes, and community context outlined in this call
  • Participating in meetings with project staff and a selection panels, as required
  • Providing concept sketches and/or digital renderings for review and approval prior to fabrication
  • Incorporating feedback from the review process while maintaining artistic integrity
  • Preparing the installation surface, including cleaning, patching, sanding, priming, and other necessary treatments
    • Clean the exterior materials across the full mural surface
    • Mask surrounding surfaces to protect adjacent areas during painting
    • Prepare the surface as needed:
      • Light abrasion (e.g., sanding) may be required to improve adhesion
      • Deglossing is recommended due to newly installed panels
      • Follow preparation guidelines provided in supplemental documentation
    • Use the pre-finished panel color as the base of the artwork unless an alternative base color is proposed
      • If needed, apply a compatible bonding primer
    • Apply exterior-grade paints in approved colors and design
    • Finish with a UV-resistant clear coat to ensure longevity and durability
  • Supplying all materials, equipment, lifts/scaffolding (if required), and protective coverings
  • Completing the mural installation in accordance with the approved design, project schedule, and site conditions
  • Ensuring compliance with all applicable safety regulations, building requirements, and accessibility considerations
  • Applying appropriate protective coatings or sealants to ensure durability, cleanability, and longevity
  • Coordinating site access and installation schedule with the project manager or designated representative
  • Maintaining a clean, safe, and minimally disruptive work environment during installation
  • Participating in documentation of the completed work (e.g., photographs, brief artist statement, or process images)
  • Completing a final walkthrough and addressing any required touch-ups or corrections
  • Removing all tools, materials, and debris, leaving the site in a clean and finished condition

Material and Durability

Artists should use high-quality, exterior-grade materials suitable for long-term outdoor exposure. Experience with commercial coatings (such as PPG or similar systems) is preferred.

Timeline

  • Call released: May 1, 2026
  • Submission deadline: July 31, 2026
  • Artist selection: August 1 -30, 2026
  • Design approval: September 15, 2026
  • Approximate installation window: October 1-31, 2026

Submission Requirements

Please include the following:

  • Brief artist statement (1–2 paragraphs)
  • Concept proposal or preliminary sketch (can be conceptual)
  • Portfolio of past work (especially murals or public art)
  • Proposed timeline for completion
  • Budget breakdown

Selection Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

  • Artistic quality and creativity
  • Alignment with project goals and trauma-informed principles
  • Experience with similar projects
  • Feasibility and durability of proposed approach

Design Review

Final designs will be reviewed and approved by the City of Vancouver committee prior to installation.

How to Apply

Submit materials to: Kerry.Peck@cityofvancouver.us
Subject line: Commons Building Mural Submission – [Artist Name]