United Way of the Midlands Anniversary Mural - South Carolina Artists Only

One Columbia for Arts and Culture and United Way of the Midlands is seeking an artist or artist team to create a public mural celebrating the United Way of the Midlands' 100th anniversary and honoring a century of service, collaboration, and community impact. The mural should reflect the organization's enduring spirit with a strong focus on people, diversity, and the communities served across Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg, and Richland counties. The design should use United Way's bright, vivid brand colors and incorporate recognizable local landmarks and symbols. Concepts using multiple panels to represent different generations or eras of history are especially welcome. Community engagement is encouraged but optional, and creative proposals that include opportunities for volunteer, donor, and public participation are welcomed.

The mural will be painted on stucco and concrete wall at 1818 Blanding St, Columbia, SC 29201, approximately 1,100 square feet in size. The surface must be suitable for a high-traffic outdoor environment and able to withstand South Carolina's weather extremes, including high UV exposure, humidity, and heat. The selected artist will be responsible for all aspects of installation, including surface preparation and application of a UV- and graffiti-resistant topcoat.

The selected artist will receive $21,250 to cover all expenses related to design, travel, lodging, materials, equipment, labor, insurance, and installation. Payment will be made in two installments: 50% upon execution of contract and 50% upon final approval and completion. The application deadline is October 2, 2025. Shortlisted artists will be notified October 23, 2025, and must submit a conceptual design report by November 20, 2025. Artist presentations will occur December 1-5, 2025, with final selection notification December 12, 2025. Installation must be completed by March 13, 2026. Applicants must be South Carolina residents and demonstrate experience designing and managing large-scale outdoor murals. Initial applications must include contact information, four work samples with titles, locations, dates, and descriptions, and a brief statement of interest explaining relevant experience.