Artists throughout WNY can apply to participate in Buffalo's Canalside Mural Fest marking America-250

Artists across Western New York are invited to apply for the upcoming Canalside Mural Fest, a two-day live painting event set to transform Buffalo's waterfront into a vibrant "living gallery."

 

This festival is part of the state's commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, celebrating New York's rich history and cultural evolution.

 

Arts Services Inc. (ASI), in collaboration with the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation and Buffalo Waterfront, is organizing the event.

 

Selected artists will create original murals on-site, engaging the public and bringing history to life through contemporary visual storytelling.

 

Each artist will be assigned a theme from the NYS 250th Commemoration Field Guide, exploring topics such as place-based identity, community histories, and ongoing movements for equity and belonging.

 

The festival is scheduled for July 11–12, 2026, with rain dates set for July 18–19.

 

Artists will work on 8’ x 8’ freestanding walls constructed from primed MDO panels.

 

Each selected artist or team will receive a $2,000 stipend, while semi-finalists not chosen for the final event will receive $150.

 

Artists are responsible for their own materials and equipment; however, a tent, table, and chairs will be provided on-site.

 

Participants are encouraged to sell their work during the event and may bring assistance for sales.

 

The application process is open to artists and creatives of all disciplines, including muralists, painters, graphic designers, tattoo artists, and street artists.

 

Preference will be given to artists based in Erie, Niagara, Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties, as well as members of Native nations within this geography.

 

One optional theme will prioritize artists who identify as members of a regional Indigenous community.

 

Applications must be submitted online and include contact information, an artist bio or resume, 2–3 professional references, a portfolio of up to 5 images of past mural or large-scale work, top two theme preferences, and a brief preliminary concept.

 

The selection process involves an initial application review, a semi-finalist design phase, and final artist selection based on concept strength, feasibility, and visual impact.

 

Key dates include the application deadline on May 13, 2026, preliminary artist selection on May 27, semi-finalist sketches due by June 10, final artist selection on June 17, and the Mural Fest on July 11–12.

 

For more information or questions about the call, application requirements, or submission process, contact ASI at (716) 833-3004.

 

Buffalo's Canalside has become a hub for public art, featuring installations like the iconic Shark Girl sculpture and the recently unveiled BUF sculpture by artist Nicole Cherry.

 

These artworks have transformed the waterfront into a dynamic cultural destination, attracting both residents and visitors.

 

The Canalside Mural Fest aims to build on this legacy, offering artists a platform to showcase their talents and contribute to the city's vibrant public art scene.

 

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a historic celebration and leave a lasting mark on Buffalo's waterfront.