Chelsea DDA Mural Program 2026

The City of Chelsea Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is seeking artists to create a public mural for Palmer Commons in downtown Chelsea. This project supports the City’s Master Plan vision of enhancing placemaking, community identity, and economic vitality through public art. Artists are encouraged to develop a design that reflects Chelsea’s vibrant arts culture, historic downtown character, welcoming community spirit, and connection to creativity, culture, and outdoor experiences. The mural should complement the City’s historic district while introducing a fresh and engaging contemporary perspective that strengthens Chelsea as a cultural destination and gathering place.

Project Overview 

Based on the City of Chelsea’s Master Plan, the City strongly emphasizes public art as part of its identity, placemaking, and economic vitality. Murals located in the DDA’s perimeter align with this vision of supporting public art installations and enhancing community culture. 

Artists will contribute mural designs that inspire and reinforce Chelsea’s commitment to the arts, and that align with our City’s profile: 

Chelsea comes alive through its rich cultural scene, festivals, and historic Main Street, where boutique shops and cozy cafes line the way. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic beauty of nearby parks and trails. With excellent schools, a supportive business climate, and proximity to Ann Arbor and Jackson, Chelsea offers a unique balance of small-town values and modern convenience, making it a place where you belong and a place that feels like home for generations.

Chelsea is part of the National Register of Historic Places district. Recognition of this, as well as the traditional character of Main Street, is important. This does not preclude a modern, vibrant look that refreshes and enhances the traditional character of Main Street.  

Chelsea’s Art Identity - Chelsea is home to the Purple Rose Theatre, SculptureWalk, which is comprised of 12-15 outdoor sculptures that rotate on an annual basis and are sometimes sold to local community members and businesses, the Sounds & Sights Festival, and a history of Art Galleries and affiliations like the Chelsea Painters.  

The City’s emphasis on “where you belong” and “quality of place” is an important consideration. 

Selection Criteria - points awarded by jury/committee 

• Artistic quality, originality, and visual impact
• Relevance to Chelsea’s history, culture, and sense of place
• Feasibility of design and durability of materials
• Artist’s qualifications and experience
• Community resonance and potential for engagement

Two to three finalists will be invited to respond to a Request for Proposal with proposed designs for the final selection. 

Project Timeline: 

• May 31, 2026 - RFQ Submission Deadline
• June 8, 2026 - Two to three Artists Selected to respond to an RFP with a stipend of $300
• July 13, 2026 - RFP Submission
• July 23, 2026 - Finalist award
• August 31, 2026 - Mural Completion

Project Details: 

Location: The Mural will be installed on the north or south walls of Palmer Commons, 304 South Main Street, Chelsea. 

Mural Dimensions: approximately 10 feet x 10 feet - Note: The mural's dimensions may be adjusted to accommodate the design and the building. Include approximate dimensions in the application submission. Note the images attached of the location. The actual measurement on the South side is 11 ft wide x 9 ft high, and on the north side, closer to 7 ft x 7 ft. The art may wrap around the ends with no art if the design lends itself to that option. See Site Plan for images. 

Goals:  

1. Beautify downtown through high-quality public art
2. Celebrate Chelsea’s identity, culture, and history while encouraging creativity and innovation
3. Strengthen Chelsea as a cultural destination
4. Enhance walkability and create inviting spaces for residents and visitors
5. Respect the historic district context while bringing a fresh, contemporary perspective

Medium: Outdoor mural using weather-resistant materials designed to withstand the elements for 5-7 years. 

Eligibility:

• Open to professional artists or artist teams
• Artists from Chelsea and the surrounding region preferred 
• Artists with mural or large-scale outdoor art experience preferred

Request for Qualification Requirements:

1. Artist Statement - brief introduction and interest in the project (one page)
2. Proposed Mural Concept - visual sketch/mock-up and a short description, including substrate material (if applicable, wall preparation plan, and paint type
3. Art Portfolio - at least five images of past large-scale/public art projects
4. Resume/CV highlighting relevant art/mural experience
5. Budget Estimate - breakdown of estimated costs and proposed artist fee
6. Timeline and logistics of design and completion dates