Iowans Create Community Mural Program

mural of a creek in spring branch, iowa

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Arts & Culture Programs

Through the Iowans Create Community Mural Program, the Iowa Arts Council matches a selected Iowa artist and community to plan, design and create an original mural that showcases the community’s unique creative and cultural identity and builds civic pride and engagement. 

Knoxville, Washington, Cascade, and Manchester have previously been awarded a mural.   

The selected artist or artist team will work with the Iowa Arts Council and the selected community partner to envision, design, and create an original mural that activates a public space, welcomes visitors and showcases the authentic character of the community.  The selected artist or artist team will be expected to take part in several meetings with the selected community as part of the design and development process. 

Eligibility

Artists 

  • Iowa artists at least 18 years of age or older 

Organizations 

  • Unit of local, county, state or federally recognized tribal government physically located in Iowa.
  • Active Iowa nonprofit organization registered with the Iowa Secretary of State and maintaining a staffed office physically located in Iowa.
  • Economic development agency or organization physically located in Iowa.

Application Process

Communities

  • Deadline: October 15, 2025
  • The FY26 program cycle is open to applicants that meet the eligibility requirements for this program and have a population of 20,000 or fewer.
  • Eligible communities that applied and were not selected for funding during the FY2025 program cycle are encouraged to apply.
  • FY26 Iowans Create Community Mural Program Online Application 

Artists

Resources

FY26 Iowans Create Community Mural Program Guidelines
386.09 KB .pdf

Schedule a meeting with Program Manager Jon Berg to discuss an application.