How Ensure the Mural Lasts- Surface Prep:

The greatest concern for a mural is the surface the artwork will be painted on. If the surface to be painted on is failing, the painting will fail too!

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To ensure a successful and long-lasting mural, a prospective mural surface should be carefully inspected for:

• loose or peeling paint

• loose or broken concrete

• cracked stucco material

• signs of water leaks (new or old)

• staining or rusting  

• the ability to remove metal screws, anchors, or nails (recommended)

• large cracks

• foreign material, such as plant or synthetic material growing through or being deposited from an adjacent or nearby source

• bird or bat droppings, insects, etc.

• electrical wiring or other nearby safety and access hazards 

The best type of surface to receive paint is one that is a raw, unpainted stone or concrete material that is free of any of the above conditions.

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We have been in situations where the condition of cinder blocks were too damaged (cracked/peeling paint/rust). An alternative to painting directly on a wall is to have a removable mural painted on wood or metal. Removable murals also are recommended for businesses & organizations that may not stay in their current location. (That way the mural can be moved.)

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Will my mural be visible?

 

Take into consideration how the mural will be viewed by passerby's, including:

• People on foot, bicycle, skateboard, etc.

• People driving by in automobiles

• People utilizing public transit 

 

Murals also can be in secluded places, make sure your artist(s) takes into consideration your built-in audience (or who will occupying the space/viewing your mural).

 

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Do I need to get special permissions?

Yes, there may be several layers of permission that need to be obtained to paint a mural. Even if you have a perfect wall in a perfect location, it does not mean a mural may be painted on that site. Here are some questions to research before an artist is hired or a mural is designed:

• Who owns the proposed mural site and what permission do they require?

• Is the site located on public property or private property? Does a government office need to give permission to have a mural there?  (Joel & Wendy recommend contacting your local Streets Department or Zoning Office).

• Is the site in a historic district? If so, reach out to the local Historic Commission, Planning Office, or Zoning Office to ask about rules in historic districts.  

The wall owners may require review and approval of the design, insurance policies, street closures, or demonstrated community review and approval of the mural before you start painting. 

 

City staff simply needs the address of the site and a preliminary design with dimensions in order to properly advise you on your project. Gather these items and give them a call, do this during the budgeting stage, as permit costs should be included in the proposal & contract.