If you are an artist looking to get into painting murals and would like to work as a Rising Star Muralist for BRUSH Mural Fest 2026, you are in the right spot! In this application, we are looking for enthusiastic artists who have a passion to build a career in mural painting. We can’t wait to review your application.
ABOUT BRUSH MURAL FEST
BRUSH Mural Festival, founded in 2022 by three local muralists, is Baltimore's very own hyper-local mural festival dedicated to empowering the city’s muralists. Created for artists, by artists, BRUSH’s mission is to uplift the artistic community by providing opportunities for education, engagement, and employment. We focus on fostering economic independence among Baltimore's muralists through a comprehensive workforce development program that enhances financial literacy, facilitates mentorship, and offers creative business resources. Artists are given the chance to unleash their creativity on murals, enjoying the freedom to express their vision while adhering to collaborative guidelines.
Together, we are committed to creating a mural festival that:
- Highlights the talent & charm of Baltimore City through the power of murals
- Provides opportunities for emerging muralists to become a part of the local mural industry in Baltimore
- Empowering artists to build their careers HERE within their community
Please email support@brushmuralfest.com if you have any questions or issues with your application.
ELIGIBILITY
- All Applicants MUST be over 18 to apply.
- All applicants MUST be first-time PRO participants in BRUSH Mural Fest.
- All applicants MUST live OR work in Baltimore City to apply.
- All Applicants MUST have General Liability Insurance to apply.
- As a mural festival this year, while all applications will be considered, priority will be accorded to individuals who self-identify as members of underrepresented minority groups.
- This year we are not accepting applications from artist teams.
- Incomplete or late applications will not be reviewed.
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
One of the pillars of BRUSH Mural Fest is centered around our commitment to ensuring that participating artists receive the resources needed to succeed. This includes a robust mentorship program between selected professional muralists and emerging artists.
- “PRO” - Professional Muralist that showcases a large portfolio and proficiency in handling large-scale mural installations.
- “Rising Star” - Artists, 18 years or older, with 0-2 painted murals experience and a plan to focus on murals as their main medium.
The Mentorship Program will be tailored to each partnership, with guidance provided for mentors throughout the festival.
BRUSH organizers will pair you with a PRO based on your artistic styles. We will be by your side to help with your journey with guidance along the way.
TIMELINE
- Applications Open on June 1, 2026
- Applications close on June 18, 2026 at 11:59pm
- Artists Selected by July 1, 2026
- Mural installation absolutely MUST be completed by September 25, 2026
EVENTS
MANDATORY
20 hour Rising Star commitment total, inclusive of mural installation (while we’d love for you to paint the entire time your PRO does, you may not be able to due to other commitments, schedule conflicts, etc).
- July 9: BRUSH Artist Orientation (virtual)
- July 15: Artist Meet & Greet - location TBD
- July 20-22: BRUSHWork Incubator Program
- Aug 5: Mentorship Check In 1 (virtual)
- Sept 2: Mentorship Check In (virtual)
- Sept 12-25: Painting weeks - PROs are fully responsible for the completion of their mural; RISING STARS assist as possible
- Sept 26: BRUSH Mural Fest
- Sept 30: Mentorship Check In 3 (virtual)
OPTIONAL
- Sept 10: Community Paint Day
MURAL DETAILS
- Each mural will measure approximately 200 square feet
- Artist Stipend for RISING STARS is $1,000
- PROs are expected to supply their own painting supplies (brushes, drop clothes, buckets, chalk, etc.)
- BRUSH will determine when / if a lift is necessary for mural completion. If it is required, BRUSH will cover the cost of the lift.