Call for Artists: Mural or Installation Commemorating Mill Creek Valley

Saint Louis Arts Chamber of Commerce announces a juried call for artists to design and install a mural commemorating Mill Creek Valley, a historic neighborhood in St. Louis in the corridor between 20th St. and Grand whose predominantly African American population was displaced in the 1950s for urban expansion. The mural or installation will be displayed for a minimum of two years on the campus of Saint Louis University at the historical entrance to Mill Creek Valley at Grand Blvd and Lindell Blvd. The artist's award is $12,000, which must cover costs for materials, effort, transport, and installation. Entry deadline is November 30, 2023.

The mural or installation must be freestanding and not attached to a wall, though it may be anchored to the ground or earth setting. It must be made of materials that will not be harmful to the environment and able to withstand the elements for a minimum of two years. The work should honor the residents and community of Mill Creek Valley, may make a statement about the effects of urban renewal on communities, and should express positive cultural and historical relevance to the Mill Creek Valley community. Size limits are flexible and the work is expected to be large enough to be seen from the cross streets. All jury-selected designs are subject to approval based on technical review by the facilities division at Saint Louis University. Upon completion of the two-year exhibit, the artist is responsible for removal of the artwork.

Submissions require 3-6 images and up to 3 videos. Entry fee is $25. The jury process is blind and anonymous, with jurors selected from December 15, 2023 to January 15, 2024. Jury members include Cathleen A. Fleck (Chair, Fine and Performing Arts Department, Saint Louis University), David Suwalsky, S.J. (Vice President for Mission and Identity at Saint Louis University), Sandy Brooks (Founder/President Saint Louis Arts Chamber of Commerce), Lois Conley (Founder and President of The Griot Museum), and Damon Davis (artist and designer of the Mill Creek Valley monument Pillars of the Valley).