The City of Chelsea Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is inviting professional artists to submit qualifications for a new public mural project planned for downtown Chelsea. The submission deadline is June 15, with final installation anticipated by August 31, 2026.
Inspired by the City of Chelsea’s Master Plan and commitment to placemaking through the arts, the project aims to create a vibrant public artwork that reflects Chelsea’s identity, culture, and sense of place. The mural will be installed on the Palmer Commons building, located at 304 South Main Street in downtown Chelsea.
Chelsea’s thriving arts culture, including the Purple Rose Theatre Company, SculptureWalk Chelsea, the Sounds & Sights Festival, and longstanding artistic traditions, helped shape the project’s vision. Artists are encouraged to create designs that celebrate Chelsea’s history and community spirit while introducing a fresh and contemporary perspective that complements the City’s historic downtown character.
The selected mural will beautify downtown, strengthen Chelsea as a cultural destination, and create an engaging, welcoming space for residents and visitors alike.
The RFQ deadline to apply is June 15, 2026. Additional project details, selection criteria, and application link can be found on the CaFÉ online platform.
EDITOR’S NOTE: To encourage more local artist participation, the DDA has extended the application submission deadline from May 31 to June 15, 2026. This story has been updated to reflect that change.
