Proposals requested for the Peters Park Mural in the South End

"The Peters Park RFP is designed to bring local youth together with a professional artist, creating an opportunity for creative and cultural expression," said Mayor Walsh. "Incorporating more public art into our neighborhoods brings vibrancy and value, and is an important part of our Boston Creates Cultural Plan. I look forward to seeing the proposals that are submitted for Peters Park."

The Peters Park Art Wall was proclaimed a legal graffiti wall in 1986 in an effort to decrease vandalism in the South End. The City, in partnership with area organizations and businesses, seeks to continue the tradition of curating and programming the Art Wall, both for the enrichment of the neighborhood as well as the preservation and celebration of this area's diverse cultural history.

"The South End neighborhood has long been defined by the creative energy of our community," said Kristin Phelan, Board President, Washington Gateway Main Street. "The synergy that has formed around this project between the Mayor's Office, South End organizations, artists from the original ALA Collective, residents, and creative enthusiasts is inspiring. Clearly, there is power in collaboration, and we look forward to this being the first of many projects to come."

The RFP is open to all professional artists, artisans, or teams with experience in public art, site responsive design, project management, and working with youth. The RFP was shaped by community feedback gathered last fall and the successful proposal will celebrate and preserve a history of culturally relevant art for the next wave of artists and community youth.

"The Peters Park RFP is a true community partnership," said Julie Burros, Chief of Arts and Culture for the City of Boston. "We are looking forward to working with the community and local businesses to create a mural that will celebrate the South End's cultural history."

Today's announcement builds on Mayor Walsh's commitment to the arts in Boston. Last June, Mayor Walsh announced the release of the city's cultural plan, Boston Creates, a 10-year led initiative to align public and private resources to strengthen cultural vitality over the long-term, and weave arts and culture into the fabric of everyday life. Recently, Mayor Walsh announced the selection of an artist to create public art project in Hyde Square, as well as guest curators that were selected to exhibit their work in the City Hall galleries.

To see the full RFP visit the City's open calls and applications page or go to the BAC's Call to artists page. All questions regarding the RFP should be submitted to the Boston Art Commission at BAC@boston.gov.

Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture (MOAC)

The Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture's mission is to support artists, the cultural sector, and to promote access to the arts for all. The office houses the Boston Cultural Council, the Boston Art Commission, and the Poet Laureate program. Responsibilities include leading implementation of the City's cultural plan, Boston Creates; managing the Boston Artist-in-Residence program; curating exhibitions in City Hall; and operating the historic Strand Theater in Dorchester. For more information go to: www.boston.gov/departments/arts-and-culture

Boston Art Commission

The Boston Art Commission (BAC), an independent board of arts leaderscharged with the care and custody of all artworks on City of Boston property, advocates for the creation of innovative and transformative art and promotes its accessibility to enrich the lives of Boston's diverse citizens and visitors. The Art Commission advises, supports, and consults with artists and communities, City departments, and others. It commissions, approves, and conserves the City of Boston's collection of art and historical artifacts.

For more information go to: www.publicartboston.com