A new mural initiative is calling on artists across the Southern Tier to help bring climate and justice-focused artwork to their communities.
The Thriving Futures Mural Initiative, a collaboration between Smart Energy Choices and Ithaca Murals, has allocated $56,000 to fund 16 murals across the region. Artists interested in participating must submit their proposals by March 21 at ithacamurals.com/thriving-futures-2025.html.
The initiative is open to community members in Steuben, Schuyler, Chemung, Tompkins, Tioga, Broome, Chenango, and Delaware counties. Selected murals should be in highly visible locations and reflect themes such as environmental justice, green jobs, clean energy, and climate resilience.
Each mural must also include a public engagement component, whether through community painting sessions, discussions, or events related to the mural’s themes. Artists working in disadvantaged communities, as identified by the New York State Climate Justice Working Group, will receive priority consideration.
The program will support eight medium-sized murals at $2,000 each, targeting first-time muralists, and eight larger murals at $5,000 each for experienced artists. Funding covers both materials and artist stipends. A panel of community justice leaders and program organizers will select the winners based on concept, impact, engagement plan, and past experience.
More details and the application form can be found at ithacamurals.com/thriving-futures-2025.html. Interested applicants can also text Ithaca Murals at 607-273-5242 with questions.
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