Photo by Asia Morris of artist Jose Loza’s mural.
Last year Vice Mayor Rex Richardson’s Creative Corridor Challenge, in partnership with the Arts Council for Long Beach and Squeeze Art Collective, brought seven murals to North Long Beach by eight local artists, transforming blighted and unactivated areas into destinations in several corridors throughout the district.
Now, for the second consecutive year, Richardson has put out a call to artists for the next challenge, now in partnership with the Arts Council and Cal State Dominguez Hills. Artists are invited to submit their ideas and qualifications by Saturday, September 30 to take part in adding to North Long Beach’s growing collection of murals.
Artists interested have been asked to submit concepts that “uplift, highlight and celebrate the vibrant history and culture of North Long Beach.” Preference will be given to Long Beach residents or those with a current or past connection to North Long Beach, according to the form. The submissions will be reviewed by the Office of Vice Mayor Rex Richardson, the Arts Council and residents of the community.
This year, selected artists will have help from a team of community volunteers, as well as receive a $3,000 to $4,000 stipend, including supplies and equipment.
Next month, artists will be invited to present their concepts at a community meeting, where residents will rank them accordingly. The murals will be painted November through February, and a mural tour will be held in March.
Artists can submit their ideas and qualifications via the form here.