Call Description

The City of Orlando invites artists to submit qualifications for a public art opportunity at the John H. Jackson Neighborhood Center Playground, located at 1002 Carter Street, Orlando, FL 32805.

This project seeks an artist to design and install vibrant, engaging exterior murals along the north edge of the playground. The selected artist will create artwork that enhances the space, reflects the surrounding community, and fosters a welcoming and inspiring environment for children and families.

The John H. Jackson Neighborhood Center and pool serve as a hub for youth and families in the historic Carter Street neighborhood, known for its strong community leadership. It has a rich history of invested community gathering at the center for after-school and summer camp, tennis lessons, swim lessons at one of the city’s two original pools, as well as baseball games played in by Jackie Robinson, Jim “Fireball” Cozie, and Jim “Schoolboy” Tugerson.

The mural site consists of two wall panels:

• Left panel: 27 feet wide × 8 feet tall
• Right panel: 15 feet wide × 8 feet tall

The City is seeking artwork that features bold, vibrant colors and a strong sense of energy and movement, with imagery that celebrates children, play, imagination, and community connection. Compositions should feel dynamic and uplifting—incorporating playful figures, expressive forms, and a sense of motion that brings the space to life. The final design must be original and created specifically for this site.

Important Dates

• Submission Deadline: May 10, 2026 at 11:59 PM
• Jury Review Period: May 11–13, 2026
• Artist Notification: May 14, 2026
• Projected Mural Start Date: June 1, 2026

Application Requirements

Artwork Criteria

• Artwork must be constructed of durable, weather-appropriate materials suitable for exterior installation.
• Designs must allow for minimal maintenance and long-term display.
• Artwork must comply with all applicable safety and building codes.
• An anti-graffiti coating must be applied upon completion.

Artwork Restrictions

• No theme park references or representations
• No logos or commercial branding
• No identifiable sports teams
• No references to Pulse Nightclub or COVID-19
• No identifiable persons or celebrities
• No copyrighted or trademarked materials
• No political or religious messaging

Submission Requirements

• Artist statement
• Portfolio of relevant past work (murals or large-scale public art preferred)
• Resume or CV
• At least two professional references
• Preliminary concept or approach (optional, if desired)

Eligibility Criteria

Preference will be given to artists residing within a 200-mile radius of downtown Orlando; however, artists outside of this region will also be considered.

Must begin by June 1, 2026