CAH’s Public Art department is soliciting applications from experienced local mural artists for our new grant Fresh Paint: CAH Mural Program to design and install large-scale exterior murals on the facade of selected buildings within the District of Columbia.
The purpose of the Fresh Paint: CAH Mural Program is to:
- Encourage appreciation for and enjoyment of the arts and humanities by funding local artists to install original murals in accessible public spaces within the District for all to experience.
- Create arts projects for District-based mural artists to collaborate to showcase their talent and have arts-related work opportunities in District.
- Strengthen District communities by reflecting place-based identities in the design of the mural and by fostering a sense of communal ownership over space through stewardship of the mural.
- Provide educational opportunities and share culture through public art which enhances the artistic and humanistic talents of the grantee.
FY 2026 Request for Applications
- RFA Release: Monday, December 15, 2025
- Submission Deadline: Monday, February 23, 2026, at 9 pm
- Notification to All Applicants: April 10, 2026
- Anticipated Number of Awards: Varies; up to 4
- Anticipated Award Amount: Varies; $25,000 to $33,333
Applicants for the FY26 Fresh Paint: CAH Mural Program must use CAH’s new Grants Application Portal Submittable to submit applications. This cycle is a test of the new system, and currently the previous portal is still open if applicants need to access past documents and the Media Viewer. Please review the “Tips on Using Submittable” before completing the application. Additional resources for help with Submittable are available here.
Prospective applicants should read through this Request for Applications (RFA) entirely prior to applying.
Project Manager Staff Contact:
Deirdre Darden, Public Art Coordinator: [email protected]
View the FY26 Fresh Paind: CAH Mural Program document by downloading the PDF of the RFA, or navigate the RFA on our website using the Table of Contents below.
Table of Contents
- General Information
- Required Application Materials
- Review Criteria
- Notification and Payment
- Allowable Costs and Funding Restrictions
- Conditions of Funding and Grant Rescindment
- Definitions
- Risk Management and Performance Monitoring
- Contact Information
- Addendum A: Work Samples and Support Materials
- Addendum B: Terms & Definitions
- Addendum C: Copyright Warranty