Background and Introduction:

Midtown Baltimore is implementing a $6.4M Master Plan to improve a section of Falls Gateway by investing in transportation, environmental, and creative placemaking initiatives. The Falls Gateway Project aims to transform the underutilized and overgrown Falls Gateway corridor into a vibrant and safe thoroughfare that celebrates the history of the city and fosters community building. You can learn more about the Master Plan here.

As part of this Master Plan, Midtown seeks to activate the alleyway on West Trenton Street that runs from Falls Road to Maryland Avenue. This will be achieved through the installation of overhead lighting, repaving of the street, and creation of public art. Midtown will be responsible for the lighting and street improvements and is partnering with the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) to institute the public artmaking component of this project.

Project Overview:

In collaboration with MICA, Midtown Baltimore seeks proposals from current MICA students and alumni of MICA to design and install a mural on the facade of the two buildings on either side of the Trenton Street alley, which currently house MICA’s graduate student program .The selected artist(s) will be enlisted to design and create artwork on the walls of the alleyway.

The selected artist(s) will conceptualize and execute a mural installation that aims to enhance the visual appeal of West Trenton Street to create an engaging environment for the community. Artists should consider the unique architectural elements and dimensions of the space to create an impactful design. The proposed installation design should draw inspiration from the many histories and legacies of the Penn-Fallsway neighborhood, including those that have been erased or misrepresented.

Scope of Work and Project Objectives:

Proposals should align with the following objectives:

1. Develop a stimulating visual design that fosters community engagement and pride.

2. Reflect on the diverse cultural heritage of the Penn-Fallsway neighborhood.

3. Utilize innovative and sustainable materials and techniques where applicable.

4. Comply with the city’s regulations and guidelines for public art installations.
   

Proposal Requirements:
Interested individuals or teams are requested to submit proposals that include the following:

1. Description of the proposed artwork, which includes how the design speaks to the history and heritage of the Penn-Fallsway neighborhood.

   • Description can be submitted as a written response (500 words or fewer) OR as a video explanation (2 minutes or less), whichever is preferred.

2. Materials to be used

3. Installation Timeline

4. Project budget

5. Curriculum Vitae

6. Three examples showcasing existing relevant artwork or link to online portfolio or artist website

7. Contact information and a brief bio of the artist(s).

Budget:

The total budget available for this mural is $15,000, inclusive of all artists fees, materials, and equipment. Proposals should be cost-effective and realistic within the allocated budget.

Midtown Baltimore and MICA look forward to receiving innovative and inspiring proposals that will contribute to the revitalization of West Trenton Street and enrich the cultural landscape of Baltimore.

Submission Guidelines

Proposals are now closed. Please stay tuned for future information as we review submissions.