StART has received requests from artists interested in doing more projects in support of Black Lives Matter, justice for Indigenous Peoples and social justice issues in support of equity deserving groups. In response, this fourth annual “Just Us” Art Call is for concepts for mural projects that recognize and create awareness of social injustice, and support equity, race relations and community engagement related to Black lives and the rights of Indigenous Peoples and equity deserving groups.

This call invites concepts from street, mural and graffiti artists and artist collectives committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and inspiring positive change through who they are and the work they create. Project proposals should speak to historic and current social issues and movements within Black and Indigenous communities and equity deserving groups and the importance, benefits and opportunities to build a better future through inclusion, collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Mural projects must be exposed to and visible from a city street. Submissions must include written authorization from the property owner granting the artist or collective permission to paint their concept on the wall. All projects must be located in Toronto.

The goal of this Art Call is to establish a roster of projects eligible to participate in the StART “Just Us” Art Project. An Advisory Panel will select up to 10 projects from the roster to receive up to $5,000 toward the creation of their project.

Overview of Artist Selection Process

There are two deadlines for Artist submissions. The early bird deadline for Artist submissions is April 30, 2023. Artists who submit an application by this deadline will be notified on or around May 15 with the results of their submission.

The second and final deadline is August 15, 2023 (final deadline). Artists who submit an application by this deadline will be notified on or around August 30, 2023 with the results of their submission.

Submissions will be reviewed by an Advisory Panel comprised of at minimum: four representatives with an arts and/or community equity and inclusion background and one StART staff who will select up to 10 concepts to receive funding toward the installation of their mural.

Eligibility

Artist applicants must reside in the City of Toronto
Artist applicants must be at least 18 years old
City of Toronto employees are not eligible to apply
All projects must be located in Toronto
All projects must be exposed to and visible to a city street
Submissions must include written authorization from the property owner granting the artist or collective permission to paint their mural concept on the wall.

About StreetARToronto

StreetARToronto (StART) is a suite of innovative programs specifically designed for streets and public spaces. StART has been successful in working with artists to produce vibrant, meaningful, community engaged street mural and graffiti art. StART programs encourage active transportation (walking and cycling), make our streets more inviting and safe, showcase local artists, mentor emerging talent, and create opportunities for positive engagement among residents, business, artists, arts organizations and City staff.

While based on themes relevant to local sites and neighbourhoods, StART artworks and artists also reflect the City of Toronto motto: Diversity Our Strength and foster a greater sense of belonging among all. An initiative of the City of Toronto, Transportation Services Division, StART has become a leader in significant mural, street and graffiti art installations since its inception in 2012.

"Just Us" Art Call - 2023