The Office of Arts and Culture is inviting young artists to participate in a mural design contest for Cholla Library, which is located near Interstate 17 and Peoria Avenue. This initiative coincides with the library’s upcoming 50th anniversary in May 2027 and the redevelopment of the surrounding area.
Community Investment Through Art
The mural is part of a larger effort to invest in the community as the area undergoes significant changes with The Metropolitan, a $1 billion project that will transform the former Metrocenter Mall site into new housing, retail, restaurants, and public green spaces. The winning mural design will be created by a student from the Cholla Library service area, highlighting the community’s pride and identity.
Councilwoman Ann O’Brien emphasized the personal connection to the library. She expressed the desire for young people to see their creativity celebrated amid the upcoming revitalization.
Collaboration and Creative Expression
The Office of Arts and Culture is partnering with the Phoenix Public Library and O’Brien for this project. The chosen design will be transformed into a large-scale mural inspired by the Sonoran Desert and neighborhood pride. Phillip Dunlap, the Director of the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, remarked on the impact of public art, noting its ability to enhance how people connect with their shared spaces.
The contest is open to students in grades 7-12 who reside in the Cholla Library service area. After an initial review by a committee that includes art teachers and community representatives, the winning design will be selected through public voting. Erin MacFarlane, Phoenix Public Library Director, highlighted the opportunity for current students to contribute to the library’s legacy through their artwork.
Submission Guidelines and Deadline
Artwork submissions are due by December 11, 2026, at 5 p.m. Designs should capture the essence of the desert environment and reflect neighborhood pride. Entries must be original and cannot include political content, depictions of people, or AI-generated imagery. For details on submission procedures, interested participants can reach out to the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture.
Source: City of Phoenix
