Large Scale Artwork for Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium is accepting artists' concepts for two mural projects to be located on the exterior of the building. The murals will be two large digital prints: one facing Ivan Allen Blvd, 406' by 57' in size and one facing Luckie St., 251' by 49' in size. The purpose of the murals is to bring a sense of arrival for guests, to bring curb appeal to the building and to help invigorate downtown Atlanta.

Georgia Aquarium is initially asking for design concepts and examples of similar works. After the review process, a negotiated fee will be paid for development of the concept. The artist(s) will not be asked to print or install the artwork, only provide the art or design, which will be reproduced onto a mesh banner. The Aquarium suggests the following animals be incorporated into the design concept: African penguins, California sea lions, sharks and manta rays. The art is purely aesthetic and should not include advertisements or logos of any kind, including that of Georgia Aquarium. The artwork must be designed to be safely viewed by vehicular traffic arriving at speeds of 0-40mph and must create a welcoming, memorable experience. The style of art is not limited by realism or other style parameters.

This call is open to both professional and amateur Atlanta-based artists. Any artwork submitted utilizing AI generated work will automatically be deemed ineligible. Artists must be available for any possible installation processes that could arise. A selection panel will review applications and determine a shortlist of five to ten finalists. Georgia Aquarium may contract one artist or artist group to fulfill both murals or choose two artists, one for each mural. Final installation is projected for Spring/Summer 2026. Applications must be received via email by 5:00pm, January 5th, 2026. There is no application fee. Submit a letter of interest (500 words max), professional resume or CV (2 pages max), a sketch or design draft, three professional references, and three to five images of similar artwork projects completed within the past 10 years. Artists may submit up to two pieces for consideration and should include a proposed salary.