Thank you for your interest in being a chalk muralist at the Tempe Festival of the Arts!
DATES: March 12 - 14, 2027
EVENT HOURS: 10:00AM – 5:00PM, Fri & Sat; 10:00AM – 4:00PM, Sun
CHALK-A-LOT LOCATION: Downtown Tempe, Arizona, in the parking lot of 4th Street and Mill Ave.
Spring 2027 Theme:
What If...? Where Curiosity Becomes Art
Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme in their own unique style. Artwork may be whimsical, realistic, abstract, surreal, or conceptual, but should remain family-friendly and suitable for audiences of all ages. Original interpretations are encouraged, allowing each artist to answer the question, "What if?" in a way that reflects their own imagination and artistic voice.
Theme Description
From whimsical fantasies and alternate realities to futuristic visions and playful twists on everyday life, artists are encouraged to dream beyond the expected and create artwork that sparks curiosity, wonder, and conversation. Whether humorous, surreal, thought-provoking, or breathtakingly beautiful, each piece should encourage visitors to pause, imagine, and ask, "What if?"
Creative Inspirations
- Impossible Worlds - What if gravity worked differently? What if cities floated among the clouds or existed beneath the ocean?
- Nature Reimagined - What if flowers glowed at night? What if animals could paint, trees could walk, or seasons happened all at once?
- Future Visions - Imagine tomorrow. What if transportation, technology, architecture, or daily life looked completely different?
- Fantasy & Myth - Bring mythical creatures, magical realms, legendary heroes, or enchanted adventures to life. What if dragons lived in downtown Tempe or phoenixes nested in desert cacti?
- Everyday, Extraordinary - Take an ordinary object or moment and give it an unexpected twist. What if coffee cups contained galaxies? What if books opened into entire worlds? What if sidewalks became portals to somewhere new?
***PLEASE BE ADVISED*** The theme is subject to change. Please remain flexible and adaptable if adjustments are necessary.
Please read the Chalk-A-Lot Handbook before submitting your application. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
For any inquiries, contact amy@downtowntempe.com
The application deadline is December 15, 2026.