Maui Public Art 2025 Call to Artists

The 2025 request for proposals stems from the Hui Mo'olelo program, which cultivates site-specific stories through community workshops rooted in Hawaiʻi. Artists select a story to interpret as a work of visual, performance, or experiential public art in collaboration with community members. Artist proposals are selected by a community panel, followed by an intensive learning and cultural exchange. Selected projects will be matched with appropriate venues, resources, and support based on scale, feasibility, and community impact.

This is a commission, not a grant. Artists are selected based on their past work and proposal, but are expected to workshop and refine their project with partners and community members before final presentation. Upon selection, artists will be paired with community consultants to integrate feedback into the initial proposal in collaboration with Maui Public Art Corps and partners. This project development period includes identifying a unique proverb from Mary Kawena Pukui's 'Ōlelo No'eau: Hawaiian Proverbs and Poetical Sayings with cultural consultant Sissy Lake-Farm, Executive Director of Hale Hō'ike'ike at the Bailey House/Maui Historical Society. Community engagement is a key priority, and selected artists must be open to input and adaptation throughout the development process.

Artists may apply for multiple project categories: Pop-Up Performances (20-30 minute original performance, $5,000 budget cap, deadline March 31, 2025); Murals (site-specific mural composition, $12,000 budget cap, deadline March 31, 2025); Utility Box Project for Emerging Artists (hand-painted mini-mural on utility box measuring 49" tall x 24" wide x 12" deep, $1,000 budget cap per box, rolling deadline); and Beautifying Bins. Entry fee is $10. Up to 10 applications allowed per artist. Work sample requirements: 3-7 total samples including up to 7 images, 4 audio files, and 4 video files. International eligibility. Budget range: $100-$20,000 depending on project category. Selected artists will receive a commission not to exceed the budget cap of each opportunity. No additional compensation will be provided.