LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Metro Louisville and MSD announced Wednesday they are seeking artists to paint a mural on a 6,000-foot section of flood wall to serve as an eye-catching entry to Waterfront Park.
“Louisville’s riverfront has a unifying feature – the U.S Army Corps of Engineers Flood Protection System,” Jessica Bennett Kincaid, Office of Arts + Creative Industries Director, said. “There are more than 24,000 feet of flood walls that keep our community safe and are also prime locations for murals. These artworks will energize our public space, express community identity, and invite more visitors to experience and appreciate our riverfront.”
The area designated for murals is located near 1000 Rowan Street at the 10th Street Floodwall. One wall is currently marked by a painted “Mural Coming Soon” message with a QR code that directs people to additional information.
“The floodwall mural will serve as a welcoming gateway to the new $50 million Waterfront Park expansion by transforming an imposing barrier into an engaging work of art,” Deborah Bilitski, President and Executive Director of Waterfront Park, said. “We are grateful to Louisville Metro Government and MSD for partnering with us to help ensure our waterfront is beautiful, welcoming, and accessible to everyone.”
The Louisville Metro Office of Arts + Creative Industries is now accepting applications. The area designated for the flood wall mural pilot project includes both sides of the 10th Street Floodwall and the 10th Street Pump Station.
A minimum of four additional projects located elsewhere in the city will also be selected for funding to increase the presence of public art throughout the entire community.
Interested artists should apply by the deadline, Sept. 1. The Commission on Public Art will review artists' qualifications and select proposals by Sept. 16.